How does it work? Children, the elderly and needy adults who live at shelters are asked to name one thing they'd like for Christmas. This is written on a card and hung on the tree. Shoppers pick out one or more cards and buy the requested item.
Everyone can help because some of the requests are very inexpensive such as "Socks". One man asked for a warm hat for the winter. Many ask for sweatshirts. The children are more hopeful. They put down things all children want and some of these things are expensive. Despite that, their wishes are often fulfilled by generous shoppers.
Even a child living a homeless shelter might want a Nintendo or Playstation. Eventually, they'll be moved either to a welfare motel with their family, or put into a foster home. Better than buying them a big system is to get them a GameBoy which is more portable.
Our children's services also found that children have nothing to put their possessions in so they are given a black garbage bag. How awful to go from home, to homeless shelter, to foster home or welfare motel with only a black plastic bag. Realizing the need people have been asked to donate back packs and carryalls for the kids. Well, the public took up the challenge and not only has been donated back packs, but stuffing them with presents. Again, this is a very important time of year to consider doing this for the homeless children in your area. As long as the backpacks are in good condition, they can be given, even if not new.
The social service department and volunteers each year try to make Christmas special for the homeless kids. There are many agencies who ban together to make Christmas brighter for the innocent ones. The Marine Corps collects toys for tots, the local TV station does also and the Manchester Area Council of Churches. There are parties held by volunteer groups to give homeless and poor kids a little Christmas joy. And on Christmas Day one group sponsors a huge party at a fancy ballroom at a hotel (donated by the hotel). There is Santa, and Elves and other characters all dressed up. There are piles of gifts also, all age appropriate. They sing Christmas Carols, have a Christmas dinner, and get their gifts, just like boys and girls all over the country. Their mothers or parents are also invited.
