A second year of changes for MFS Christmas giving

Old National Bank has a Giving Tree where community members can purchase gifts for specific local children in need and also houses a Toys for Tots bin. Photo courtesy of Dawn Chizek (2018).

Manchester Family Service (MFS) provides aid to many families and individuals throughout the Manchester community. As the holiday season approaches, MFS is seeking ways to brighten the lives of these families through its annual Christmas projects.

For the second year in a row, there are major changes to the projects from the past. The traditional annual "Christmas Shop" will not be held this year, due to health concerns and complications arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. If you have been collecting gifts, groceries, warm clothing, and toys for local families in need, there will not be a way to distribute these items through MFS this year.

However, the the group's popular “Christmas Adopt-A-Family” project will continue. Organizations, local businesses, families, and individuals that wish to enter into the spirit of giving may purchase gifts for local 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. If you are interested in adopting a Senior or Single, contact Marlene Uphaus at 734-341-7170 or email, muphaus@aol.com.

If you are included in this project, information on labeling gifts and where and when to take them will be sent to you, and signage will also be available to direct you

Your generous donations of money are used for our monthly Food Gatherers Days’ expenses, costs associated with purchasing gift cards at various times of the year, and emergency assistance for rent and utilities. You may send donations year-around to Manchester Family Service, Attention: John Sahakian, Treasurer, P.O. Box 471, Manchester, MI 48158; but your gifts are especially appreciated during the upcoming holiday season.

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

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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.