FERNDALE – The holiday season is, for some, a time of great joy, gratitude and happiness that is often filled with tremendous generosity. However, this time of year can be challenging for many LGBTQ+ families who are struggling to make ends meet. But there are many opportunities throughout the state to provide food, shelter, and gifts for those in need. Affirmations understands what "We Are All One Family" means, which is they their end of the year project is all about helping LGBTQ+ families have a happy holiday season. There are a few ways to get involved.
The first is to identify a family in need of assistance by sending their contact information via email to Syeda Davidson at [email protected]. Davidson will reach out the family to confirm that they want to be part of this project. No families entered will be forced to participate.
Another way to help is to be willing to purchase gifts, clothes or a meal guided by the request of a family in need as provided by Davidson, who will connect givers with one of the identified families. Details about that family will be provided including what kinds of gifts the family may need along with other household supplies or gifts specific to children and the elderly. Demographic information about the family will be sent by Davidson no later than Nov. 23.
Participants have until Dec. 16 to acquire all of the gifts they would like to donate and have them delivered to Affirmations. Those who want to participate but cannot commit to purchasing gifts have the opportunity to assist in gift wrapping on Dec. 17 or gift delivery Dec. 19-23. To sign up, contact Davidson.
More Ways to Spread Holiday Cheer
There are many opportunities for to help in the metro Detroit area this year at local churches and by contacting local organizations who are accepting a variety of donations.
Goodfellow Fund of Detroit: Call 586-775-6139. Goodfellow Fund is accepting children's toys, clothing and food. Girls aged 4-10 also receive a doll dressed by an area volunteer.
Toys for Tots, local Detroit chapter: Visit http://www.detroit-mi.toysfortots.org.
United Way of Southeastern Michigan: Visit http://volunteer.truist.com/uwsem/org/dir-a-l.html.
2 HANDS: www.2 is a free resource for registered members.
The Information Center: Offers Adopt-A-Family resources where donors are supplied with the first names and the wish list of a local family. Also accepts gift certificates and cash donations. Call 734-282-7171 or email [email protected].
Adopt A Family 2011 Volunteers of America Michigan: Call 248-353-4862. Apply online for assistance.
Focus HOPE: Share with a Senior program. Call 313-494-5500.
Heart to Heart Ministries: Call 313-573-9076.
Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan: Call 248-353-8222.
"True Meaning of Christmas" Dinner: William Ford Senior Activity Center. Call 313-291-7740
Capuchin Soup Kitchen: Call 313-822-8606 ext.17
Goodfellows of Ferndale: Call 248-546-2510 "Let No Child Be Without A Christmas" is the Goodfellow's motto. For Ferndale and Pleasant Ridge families only.
Washtenaw Community Elves: Visit [email protected] http://www.washtenawelves.com.
