Christmas Giving Program

For the past 28 years – since the 1987 Advent season – Catholic Charities’ Christmas Giving Program has made it possible for needy children to smile on Christmas morning – and for parents to keep hope alive as they struggle through hard times.

“The families that come to pick up their gifts are usually very touched that somebody would go above and beyond to help out their family,” said Laura Chandley, community outreach coordinator for Catholic Charities.

This year, Catholic Charities facilitated the “adoption” of 153 needy families with a combined 392 children who faced the prospects of a Christmas without gifts. The families and organizations who adopted got a wish list that Catholic Charities obtained from those in need.

The adopting families and groups bought and wrapped gifts, and delivered them to the Catholic Center Dec. 8-9. Families picked up their gifts Dec. 10-11.

Students from St. Benedict Cathedral School volunteered Dec. 9-10, spending a few hours each day helping with package delivery and organization. They also set up a “freebies” table with additional donation of clothing and other items. Each family picking up gifts was able to select up to two items from the table.

Catholic Charities also accepted donations of gift cards that will be used to assist families who face emergency needs (e.g., food, gasoline, etc.) over the Christmas season.

Contact Chandley at Catholic Charities (812-423-5456 or email lchandley@evdio.org) for information on being a part of the 2015 Christmas Giving Program.