Humanitarian Service Project needs donations, volunteers for Christmas Offering
The Humanitarian Service Project of DuPage County is seeking donations of new toys and nonperishable food to support underprivileged children and families through its annual Christmas Offering.
The Carol Stream-based charity has been putting gifts under the tree for local children in need since 1979. This year, the organization expects to serve 350 families with nutritious groceries while providing 1,600 children and 125 seniors with Christmas gifts.
Through the Giving Tree program, donors can give unwrapped toys for children. Gifts for children between 8 and 15 years old are especially needed. Humanitarian Service Project is receiving calls daily from impoverished families hoping to have their children included on the waiting list for Christmas presents.
Donations of nonperishable food and monetary support also are needed to provide groceries to 350 families served by the program. For a monetary sponsorship of $60, donors can ensure a family with children has access to healthy foods during this period of particular financial stress for those struggling with poverty.
Humanitarian Service Project also needs volunteers during day the week of Monday, Dec. 15, as volunteers prepare to distribute the food and gifts to the families and seniors. To volunteer, call the Humanitarian Service Project at (630) 221-8340 to reserve a timeslot.
Since its inception 36 years ago, the Humanitarian Service Project has spread holiday joy to the neediest members of DuPage and Kane counties.
"Over the years, I have seen firsthand the joy on children's faces when they receive gifts. I have seen parents cry and have heard the words of appreciation from them when they tell us that without our help their children would not receive anything," Executive Director Kristin Maxwell said. "When we all come together to help those in need, we truly make Christmas miracles happen."
For information email hsp@humanitarianservice.org or visit the organization's website, humanitarianservice.org.