Santa sharing; neighborhood caring
By Patte Smith
As the holidays roll around, the Douglas/Elbert Task Force is hard at work organizing two 9Cares Colorado Shares food drives and the Santa Sharing program. “We have seen a rise in individuals and families needing assistance, and are reaching out to the community for help,” notes Suzanne Greene, executive director of the Task Force.
On November 13 at the Castle Pines King Soopers and the King Soopers on Founders in Castle Rock, 9Cares Colorado Shares will be collecting newly purchased canned goods, packaged food and toiletries. “We welcome donations of all kinds, but cannot accept refrigerated food and frozen food at these two drives.” For those who want to donate at a later date, or donate perishable food items, refrigerated and frozen food can be delivered directly to the Task Force, located at 1638 Park Street in Castle Rock. Greene also asks that those donating check expiration dates on all food items. “We hate to have to throw away food, but it is necessary if it has expired.”
The Santa Sharing holiday program, formerly Adopt-a-Family, is currently accepting applications for families, seniors and individuals who are facing financial hardship this year. The Santa’s Sharing program connects approved applicants with sponsors who will help provide “a Christmas” for these families and individuals who are struggling this year.
The Toy Chest is another avenue for giving during the holidays. New, unwrapped gifts can be donated as well as gift cards, wrapping paper, tape and ribbon. The Toy Chest is often used by families who do not have a permanent address or have missed the application deadline, but still need assistance and want to provide a holiday for their families.
All the programs the Task Force sponsors are a source of satisfaction, joy and happiness for everyone involved. Support the Douglas/Elbert Task Force to help our community. Contact Kathy D’Amore by e-mail or Nani Lindig at e-mail for more information on Santa Sharing. For information on the 9Cares Colorado Shares food drives or opportunities for volunteering, contact www.detaskforce.org.
