Wheeling Township giving programs spread holiday joy
Wheeling Township has two programs this year that will give residents and local businesses a chance to help those in need during the holiday season: Thanksgiving Baskets and Adopt A Family.
The Thanksgiving Basket program provides a traditional holiday meal with all the fixings to a qualifying family. The Adopt A Family Program connects low income families with generous donors who do their best to fulfill holiday wish lists.
"We live in an incredibly generous community," Wheeling Township Supervisor Kathleen Penner said. "Year after year, we are truly amazed at how much people care about their neighbors, and not just during the holiday season. "
To participate in the Thanksgiving Basket program, potential donors are asked to send an email to GA@WheelingTownship.com stating how many baskets they would like to provide. The deadline to become a donor is Friday, Nov. 8. Once received, a detailed list of items to go into the baskets is provided to donors, who are asked to include a range of nonperishable food items such as cranberry sauce and stuffing mix, potatoes, rolls and dessert. Additionally, a $25 grocery gift card is also requested so the receiving family can purchase a turkey or other meat to complete their dinner. Donors may provide additional items, if desired. Thanksgiving baskets should be dropped off at the township on Monday, Nov. 25.
The township's annual Adopt A Family program matches donors with low-income families. Donors are asked to spend between $50 and $100 per family member and may choose the size of the family to sponsor. While the identity of recipient families remains confidential, donors do know they are helping to brighten the holidays for those less fortunate.
If you are interested in being an Adopt A Family donor, please fill out the form on the Wheeling Township website at wheelingtownship.com or email GA@WheelingTownship.com. The deadline to apply is Nov. 8. Donors are provided with detailed wish lists, including clothing sizes, toy ideas and gift suggestions, and are asked to wrap and deliver the gifts to the township on a pre-assigned date between Dec. 12-16.