Annual Adopt-A-Family program helps those in need

THOMPSON FALLS – The season for giving is near and in an effort to give back to those in need, the Sanders County Coalition for Families is extending a helping hand to families less fortunate.

In their 21st year of the Adopt-A-Family Program, SCCFF have taken 17 families with 36 children under their wing.

According to Volunteer Coordinator Crystal Buchanan, the help is funneled to those who have experienced hardships.

“All of the families in need have experienced either domestic violence, child or sexual abuse,” said Buchanan.

The program gives Christmas to those who may not have one otherwise. People are able to adopt a family and are able to donate items the family needs. As well as needed items, the family also provides a wish list that includes items the family would like to have such as toys and art supplies.

The adopters have the opportunity to request a family size. Currently this year there are seven families with one child, five families with two children, two families with three children, two families with four children and one family with five children.

Once the preferred family size is listed, an email will be sent with the list of ages, genders and clothing sizes for that particular family.

Adopters do not need to purchase everything on the list. According to Buchanan, they only need to buy what they are comfortably able to.

SCCFF asks that all clothing items or gifts be new and not used. Pickup for the gifts will be arranged and an advocate from the non-profit will deliver the gifts to the family.

All items purchased by the adopter will only go to that particular family.

Due to confidentiality, the names of both the families and of the adopters are kept anonymous.

Along with the gifts on the lists, Buchanan said some adopters have put together a holiday food box in the past. The boxes feature dry pantry goods and gift certificates to local grocery stores.

“While this is not required, it was very greatly appreciated by the recipients. All purchases are tax-deductible and adopters will be given a tax donation receipt once items are picked up,” explained Buchanan.

This program ensures that Christmas does not skip any families who have experienced a rough time – it helps brings holiday cheer to the ones that need it the most.

“The families on this program are extremely grateful to the people who adopt them during the holiday season,” said Buchanan. “They are usually moved to tears that another person who doesn’t know them is compassionate enough to help them provide for their children.”

For more information or to adopt a family, individuals are asked to call SCCFF at 827-3218.