Needs expected to be greater for Santa’s Helpers
November 20th, 2009Needs are expected to be greater this year for Sibley County’s Santa’s Helpers because of the economy.
Organizers told the Hub this week, that 144 families are already registered to participate. In 2008, 192 families were served.
Santa’s Helpers Workshop will be held Tuesday, Dec. 8; Wednesday, Dec. 9; and Thursday, Dec. 10 at American Lutheran Church, 911 Eighth Street in Gaylord. It is sponsored by Sibley County Human Services and community civic organizations.
The program in Sibley County is for children 0 – 15 years old and their parents. In order to participate, families must live in Sibley County, meet federal poverty guidelines and also receive financial assistance. Families must complete an application to participate.
There will be one room containing gifts for children and one room with gifts for parents. Children and parents will be able to choose a gift for each other. Volunteers will wrap gifts so parents and children can be surprised at Christmas.
According to the committee, the focus of the program is the children. Monetary donations are not used to buy parent gifts. Gifts for teens have always been a challenge, they say. It is the goal for each child to receive a gift valued at $15 – $20, committee members explained.
Each family that participates receives a quilt or a fleece blanket. Hats and mittens for all ages are also needed.
Donations of new toys, games, mittens, hats, cash or other appropriate gifts are appreciated. Gifts will be accepted at Sibley County Human Services, 111 8th Street, P.O. Box 237, Gaylord until noon on Monday, Dec. 7.
The Santa’s Helpers Committee includes Dawn Kratzke, Stacy Hoechst, Kathy Franke, Linda Hoechst, and Kimberly Nachreiner.
In addition to donations, the Santa’s Helpers Committee is also looking for a civic organization that is willing to lead the Santa’s Helpers drive in Gaylord. The organization would need to send letters to businesses and organizations in late October or early November and also help collect donations. The organization would not be expected to solicit businesses door-to-door.
In the past, Gaylord Sertoma used to lead the collection in Gaylord. Last year the Jaycees did it.
If you or your civic organization is interested in helping, please contact Sibley County Human Services at 507-237-4000.
