North Aurora Mothers Club seeks donors for Christmas drive

The North Aurora Mothers Club is seeking help spreading holiday joy for its annual Operation Christmas program.

Donors are asked to give money, food, toys and gift cards to grocery and discount stores to the club, which makes up packages for needy families from Aurora and North Aurora.

The families are referred to the club from social service agencies and schools, said Julie Simpson, chairman of the drive.

Last year the club helped 53 families, and this year has 60 families signed up. The club gets a wish list from the families for gifts, and gives those lists to donors.

In the 13 years since the NAMC took over the program, it has helped nearly 600 families, Simpson said. Before the club did this, the village and other social service clubs administered the program.

Club members start delivering the food and gifts Dec. 17. They respect the wishes of the family as to whether to make deliveries when children are home. “Some want to preserve the Santa experience,” Simpson said.

Reactions vary. Some people are “amazingly overwhelmed,” she said. Others are more somber and reflective. Last year, several families visited a club meeting to thank the members. Letters from other recipients are posted on the club's website, northauroramothersclub.org.

“We don't know what everyone's situation is. We are just happy to be able to be helpful,” Simpson said.

People, groups and businesses interested in making a donation should call Simpson at (630) 212-6413. The club will pick up donations through Dec. 4.