Vicki Baker
Many of us are operating at full throttle come November as we rush through the stores to find the items on upcoming holiday wish lists and plan for elaborate family dinners. For those struggling to make ends meet, however, the holidays can be one of the most difficult times of the year. Due to life circumstances some families are faced with the stark reality that there’s no money to make holiday wishes come true. They are worrying about more important things and buying gifts and extra food is just not in the budget.
But through one simple gesture of giving, families can share a traditional meal and feel the holiday spirit knowing that someone cares. The Kiwanis Club Robson Ranch partners with Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home in delivering boxes of food for needy families during Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter holidays. Interestingly the Cumberland Thanksgiving food basket program was the first service project undertaken by Kiwanis Club RR 10 years ago this season in November 2007.
Cumberland, located in Denton, offers healing and hope to vulnerable children, teens and families. It protects children and teens through its residential program providing clothing, nutritious meals and a safe, caring place to live. In addition they receive life skills training, counseling and medical and dental care. Cumberland also provides safe residential care for single parent families. While they are rebuilding their lives the families receive help with parenting skills, counseling, spiritual guidance and education in independent living skills.
Interfacing with the community liaison, the Kiwanis Club receives information on the demographics of Cumberland’s current families in residence: number and ages of children, dietary needs and restrictions and any food preferences. Using proceeds from its many fundraising events held throughout the year, the Kiwanis Club purchases, sorts, packs and distributes food boxes to the Cumberland families. The boxes are stuffed with all the makings for a special holiday dinner: a fresh turkey or ham, rolls, carrots, squash, potatoes, yams, onions, rice, beans, apples, oranges, candy, pies and canned goods.
Ever thankful for the opportunity to feast with family and friends, Kiwanians are moved this time of year to share the bounty by providing holiday meals to the less fortunate because every family deserves to share a holiday meal together. November is the perfect time to extend the great spirit of giving beyond our homes and families, and in doing so we make a real difference in our community.
Ready to make a difference in your community through small but impactful gestures? Then visit the Kiwanis Club on the first and third Friday of each month at 8:30 a.m. in the Clubhouse. For more information contact Art Masciere at [email protected].