City Seeks Holiday Sharing Sponsors for Children, Families and Seniors in Need

The Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) invites the public to help make the 2014 holiday season brighter for the most vulnerable members of our community – low-income families, foster children, and elderly and disabled residents ‒ through the annual Holiday Sharing program, according to a news release from the City. Here’s more information about the program, from the release:

During Holiday Sharing, sponsors purchase gifts for designated eligible families and individuals, which then can be delivered directly or distributed by DCHS staff and volunteers. Through gifts of household necessities, clothing, toys, and gift cards, Holiday Sharing helps ensure that no Alexandria residents are left wanting during the holidays.

Community volunteers have already registered 675 families in need of assistance and expect at least an additional 100 families to sign up through their caseworkers. Last year, we assisted 727 families, 220 senior citizens and persons with disabilities, and nearly 100 children in foster care, in the process distributing thousands of donated items, as well as $31,000 worth of gift certificates and grocery cards. We could not have done this without the generosity of the individuals and groups who registered as sponsors. Please join with your neighbors and friends to make a difference this season.

For more information about Holiday Sharing and how you can make a difference, contact Suzanne Kratzok at 703.746.5663, email holidaysharing@alexandriava.gov, or visit our website at alexandriava.gov/HolidaySharing.