Have you noticed how much fun it is to give gifts at Christmas?  Do you recall times when you had to settle for a less-exciting gift, because you just couldn’t afford to buy what you wanted to buy?  Maybe so, but do you recall a Christmas when you had absolutely NOTHING to give, to your family, your friends, or worst of all, your children?

That’s the reality for some members of our community – every dollar is going to basic necessities, and they simply have no way to feel the joy of giving at Christmas.  That’s the reason for the Pass-Along Party, an event sponsored by the Food At First free meal program.

We’re accepting new and gently-used merchandise – just about anything, though we particularly need toys, books, small appliances, and winter coats.  (No regular clothing, large appliances, or furniture, please!)  On the day of the event (THIS Saturday, December 17th), we’ll lay it all out, and let our Guests select items for themselves, as well as items to give as gifts (“passing it along” to someone else.)  This is “re-gifting” at its best!!

So…  do you have some nice items that you’d like to donate?  Drop-off times are as follows:

Tuesday, December 13th @ 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Wednesday, December 14th @ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Thursday, December 15th @ 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Just bring them to the building between The Tribune (317 5th St) and Pyfferoen Pediatric Dentistry (301 5th St) – it’s a building owned by The Tribune, but currently empty.  We’ll have a sign on the door so that you know that you’re in the right place.  And yes, your donations are tax-deductible – please provide us with an estimate of the value of your contribution, and we will send a letter acknowledging receipt, for your tax records.

This Christmas, you have a chance to make some special memories for someone you’ll probably never meet, making your own Christmas Day a little bit sweeter as well.

P.S.  Please forward this information on to anyone else who might be interested!