WICHITA, Kan. – Catholic Charities Christmas Sharing Program will provide more than 400 families with food and more than 1,000 children with toys, hats, gloves, and stocking stuffers on Dec. 11 and 12.

• Of the families who signed up, 18 percent are living on incomes above the poverty level ($22,050 for a family of four), but below 185 percent of the poverty level. This means the children in these families qualify for reduced lunches at schools and the families receive little government support. 
• The other 82 percent of the families are living on incomes at or below the poverty level.

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 hearts as they carefully select items for each of their children. Many items are needed, including toys for children ages birth to 17, hats, and gloves for boys and girls of all ages. The food items needed are: cereal, canned meat, boxed dinners, peanut butter, pasta/pasta sauce, macaroni and cheese, canned vegetables, fruit, beans, soup and rice.

Donations are being accepted!
Now – Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 532 N. Broadway Dec. 7-9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 5725 E Kellogg, exit at Oliver or Woodlawn to access the east bound Frontage road from Edgemoor. A wish list is available online, click here. Call (316) 264-8344 for more information.

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. Many in our community have already signed up to help. We have the following opportunities • Nov. 23, 24, and 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Dec. 11 from 10:50 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. • Dec. 12 from 10:50 to 1:30 p.m. and from 1:20 to 3:30 p.m. Please call Catholic Charities at (316) 264-8344 for information on volunteering or donating.

For information on donation needs, please visit our Web site or call (316) 264-8344. Christmas Sharing information is available on the Web, click here.

Special Thanks to:
Catholic Family Credit Union and partnering credit unions employees for assisting families with the application process.
Berry Material Handling for providing a pallet jack.
Cox Communications for providing Internet access.

Catholic Charities Christmas Sharing Program operates in cooperation with other local charities to provide food for families and toys and items for children in need. By working together, the charities reduce duplication and help more families in need.

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