LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Instead of making a wish list of things they want, many people this Christmas have a wish list of things they need.
Volunteers of America currently has an Adopt-A-Family program, but they are struggling to help enough families this year due to the low number of sponsors.
“It’s cold outside, people need gear to stay warm and comfortable,” said Hailey Priebe, Volunteers of America Number Donor Relations Coordinator.
Volunteers of America is in dire need of donations of winter coats, boots, gloves, and any winter gear.
“Here at Volunteers of America, our community supports us and brings those things and then we distribute them to those in need,” Priebe said.
The organization helped more than 7,600 individuals last year and helped more than 2-thousand families through its Adopt-A-Family program. This year by adopting a family, they are looking to help double the number of families. Because of inflation and the pandemic, the community is not sponsoring families like it used to.
“It is a neighbor offering a cup of sugar to another neighbor. Instead of it being a cup of sugar, you allow donations, food pantries, and sweaters that people desperately need. You allow that for your neighbor,” Priebe said.
Your donations make an impact. Some families who have been sponsored, years later join as a sponsor to help other neighbors in need; including children, struggling families, seniors, and homeless veterans.
“Since 1993, our adoptive family program has connected community members who can help those in need,” said Priebe.
Those sponsoring a family, are required to purchase a gift for anyone under 16 living in the household. Also, provide some type of holiday food. If you are not sponsoring a family, you can also donate online. A percentage of donations received, stay right in Michigan.
The donations collected will provide winter clothing, food, gifts, and assistance to families who need them most. You can drop off donations at your local thrift store. There are two Volunteers of America locations in Lansing; they are on Saginaw Highway and Miller Road. Shops are open from 9 am to 10 pm You can drop off donations behind the building.
The deadline to apply as a sponsor and donate gifts for Adopt-A-Family, is this Wednesday, December 21st.
People can continue to make monetary donations until Christmas.
It’s too late to sponsor a family, but if you’d like to adopt a family or donate, go to: www.voami.org
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