MECF Responds to Growing Needs Amidst Pandemic

MADISON, NJ, November 16, 2020 -- As 2020 winds down, The Madison Eagle Christmas Fund (MECF) is gearing up to help neighbors in need during a year like none other. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought new challenges to Madison’s most vulnerable residents, with job losses and food insecurity becoming more widespread. In addition, social distancing requirements will prevent the traditional collection and dissemination of toys, art supplies, gloves and other essentials. To respond to the growing need as well as the inability to safely distribute gifts, the MECF is requesting cash donations through traditional means as well as a new Go Fund Me® option. The cash will be used to expand the MECF gift card program, enabling families to purchase gifts or experiences at area merchants.

The MECF is a grass-roots, community effort with volunteers, donors, merchants, civics and religious groups teaming up to help Madison families and seniors facing financial challenges during the holidays. For 45 years, the fund has provided holiday gifts such as coats, toys, books, grocery and gas gift cards for thousands of Madison residents. The fund typically works with the Madison YMCA and Madison Housing Authority to identify residents with the most significant need. As the pandemic has created additional obstacles for many families, the number of families with children in town qualifying for the federal free lunch program has ballooned to 118 families. In response, The MECF voted to expand eligibility requirements to include families meeting the thresholds for New Jersey residents.

“While this will greatly increase the number of families we assist and will require us to shoot for a very ambitious fundraising goal of $50,000, we feel it is important to do what we can during this difficult time. Madison has always had a wonderful tradition of ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ and we believe there are many in town who will answer the call to help,” said Jen Boyer, co-chair of the MECF.

Tax-deductible cash donations have always been essential to the MECF mission, but this year will be more important than ever. The group is encouraging people who traditionally purchase gifts of toys, gloves, etc. to instead make a cash donation at area merchants who will have pamphlets with a new GoFundMe QR code, replacing the collection boxes of previous years. The cash will then be used to purchase gift cards for the families, enabling them to shop for their own family’s gifts at area merchants.

“Gift cards provide a sense of dignity in allowing the families to choose their own gifts as well as supporting local businesses, who have provided discounts and support to the fund over the years,” adds Stacey Smollen, co-chair of the MECF, “It’s a win-win for everyone, and a nice ripple effect in our town.”

In addition to the new GoFund Me QR code, those seeking to help can also access the GoFundMe directly by clicking this link. Cash donations also can be made through the insert provided in the October electric bill, by posting a check payable to the Madison Eagle Christmas Fund, PO Box 2, Madison, NJ 07940 or directly through the website at madisoneaglechristmasfund.org. The QR code will also be available on window signs for those doing curbside pickup.
The MECF raises about $30,000 annually, but organizers are setting a goal of $50,000 this year to cover the large increase in families. The group relies solely on donations and volunteers to cover operating expenses. Last year, the fund assisted 48 families and 52 senior citizens, providing holiday gifts such as coats, toys, books, grocery and gas gift cards for close to 200 Madison residents. To learn more about MECF and other donation opportunities in town, please visit the webpage at www.madisoneaglechristmasfund.org, like the group on Facebook or follow on Instagram.