MFS Christmas Shop announces adoption program and gift giving

Manchester Family Service members preparing the Christmas Shop a few years ago when it was held in St. Mary’s Parish Center.

Submitted by Mary Sue Moore, Manchester Family Service

As the holiday season approaches, Manchester Family Service (MFS) seek ways to brighten the lives of those families and individuals in need through its annual Christmas Project.

Through this annual activity, MFS coordinates the efforts of persons, organizations and businesses in our community to provide gifts, food, warm clothing, and other items to those we serve. They are are asking for your assistance in making this project a success again.

All donated items are distributed at the annual “Christmas Shop” held on Saturday, December 21 from 9 am – noon in the cafeteria at Riverside Intermediate School located near the end of Main St. (710 E. Main). The Art Room at Riverside will be open from 1-5 pm on Friday, December 20 to receive donations. Please enter through the outside door from the parking lot in front. There will be signage to direct you.

Coats, boots, sweaters, hats, and gloves are gladly accepted, as well as toys and household items such as sheets, towels, blankets, dishes, kitchen items, and Christmas decorations. Groceries (no glass containers please) and paper products are items that are also distributed at this time. Please, no clothing or shoes, other than what has been specified.

The MFS popular “Christmas Adoption” project is for organizations, local businesses, and families or individuals who wish to enter into the spirit of giving by purchasing gifts for one of our seniors, singles, and/or families who have indicated that they would like to be adopted. Information on gender, age, and gift ideas for each individual as well as a suggested range of spending is available. Gifts should not be wrapped. If you wish to take part in this project by adopting a family, contact John Sahakian at 734-428-7183 or email manchesterfamilyservice@gmail,com. To adopt a Senior or Single, contact Marlene Uphaus at 734-428-8403 or email, muphaus@aol.com. These gifts can be brought to the Art Room in Riverside Intermediate on Tuesday, Dec. 17 or Wednesday, Dec. 18 between the hours of 4-7 pm.

Donations of money are used for our monthly Food Gatherers Days expenses, costs associated with the Christmas Shop, and emergency assistance for rent and utilities. You may send your donations to Manchester Family Service – Attention: John Sahakian, Treasurer, at P.O. Box 471, Manchester, MI 48158.

For income tax purposes, donations to Manchester Family Service are considered tax exempt to the extent of the law. Manchester Family Service, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

For as little as $1 a month, you can keep Manchester-focused news coverage alive.

by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.