Once again, the Allen County Family Resource Youth Service Centers and the Allen County Scottsville Fraternal Order of Police are partnering together for the fifth-annual Together For Christmas program.
“We are hoping by combining our resources, we can serve more families and help more children experience the Christmas they deserve,” explained Angel Clark with the Allen County Family Resource Center. “Like the past years, we will have a store set up and you will be given vouchers for each child. You will be able to do your own shopping to pick out gifts for your children.”
Together for Christmas will have changes in registration dates and location this year.
“If you need assistance with your child’s Christmas, you must register from October 18 through October 21, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Allen County-Scottsville Athletic complex,” Clark explained. “The Athletic Complex is located behind the high school. We will not have any registration on Saturday this year. It is important that you register during this time, as no late registrations will be accepted.”
A parent or guardian registering a child or children for Together For Christmas will need to bring a copy of each child’s birth certificate or social security card, proof of residency in Allen County, and proof of income. In addition, parents must bring all documents stating what the amount received from disability benefits, child support, wages, or any other type of income---including food stamps. This information may be provided in the form of pay stubs, tax papers, or bank statements. A parent may obtain verification of assistance that is received by contacting the Family Support Office during the week of registration. All children from zero to 18 years of age qualify for the Together For Christmas program as long as the 18 year old is still enrolled in the Allen County School District.
The Together For Christmas giveaway days this year will be Friday, December 9 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 10. The giveaways will be held at the Athletic Complex.
“Pre-registration in October is required in order to participate in this program,” Clark emphasized. “You will be given an opportunity to choose your shopping appointment time on the day you register if you qualify. You will then be responsible to bring the appointment card back on the giveaway day in order to be able to shop. If for some reason you lose your appointment card you will have to wait until all scheduled appointments are complete on Saturday in order to do your shopping.”
Monetary donations from individuals, community organizations, clubs, churches, or businesses to help purchase items for the program are needed and will be greatly appreciated. Persons wishing to make a donation or with questions about Together For Christmas, should contact Angel Clark at 270- 622-7140.