WICHITA, Kan. – Monday, Nov. 16 through Thursday, Nov. 19, Catholic Charities Christmas Sharing Program will sign up applicants for Christmas assistance at 5725 E. Kellogg.

In the spirit of Christmas, Catholic Charities staff and volunteers offer Christmas Sharing as our gift to the community. Helping those less fortunate during the Christmas season eases burdens and offers encouragement to families in our community. Last year more than 300 families were served, including approximately 900 children. Led by Catholic Family Federal Credit Union, local credit unions and their trade association have volunteered to help applicants through the process on Nov. 16-19. Spanish-speaking individuals will be available. Vietnamese-speaking individuals are encouraged to come on Tuesday, Nov. 17 when a translator will be available.

Toys, hats and mittens/gloves for children birth through 17 years and food will be distributed to individuals and families on Dec. 11 – 12 at the same location.

During the distribution of toys and food, families have the opportunity to pick items out for the children in their home. This provides a meaningful way for families to feel that they are a part of their children’s Christmas – inspiring hope in their heart as they carefully select items for each of their children.

To be successful, Catholic Charities seeks to work in partnership with individuals, families, groups and businesses in the community. Whether it is a donation to the project or a commitment to volunteer during the event, support from the community will ensure that families in need experience a joyous holiday season.

An information line has been set up for the community. Please call Catholic Charities’ main number at (316) 264-8344 for information on applying for assistance or signing up to volunteer. For information on donation needs, please visit our Web site or call (316) 264-8344. Christmas Sharing information is available on the Web at www.catholiccharitieswichita.org.

Volunteer Opportunities
Each year, families, businesses, churches and friends gather to help with Christmas Sharing. There are opportunities to help behind the scenes and to help families one-on-one.
• Help set up the facility, tables, decorate, sort, organize donations (Dec. 7-10)
• Assistance during the distribution of gifts and food, including opportunities to work with families directly (Dec. 11 – 12)
• Help clean up the facility following the event (Dec. 14-15)

For more information about how you can share your time and talents, please call (316) 264-8344.

How Families Can Apply For Assistance
Applications for Catholic Charities’ Christmas Sharing Program will be taken Nov. 16-19 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the 5725 E. Kellogg, east of Edgemoor on the Frontage Road. Catholic Charities will serve individuals/families that are not enrolled with another community holiday assistance program. An applicant must bring the following items to his/her appointment, which is first come first served.
1. A personal photo ID for the person applying.
2. Official documents (s) with Social Security Numbers and Birth Dates for each adult and child in the household (can be a school document).
3. Proof of address (such as utility bill or other mail received with in the past 30 days and includes name).
4. Proof of household income for the past 30 days (such as payroll stub or bank statement).
Learn more, click here or call (316) 264-8344.

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