As the holiday season approaches, we’re all preparing to safely celebrate with family and friends the many blessings of Advent and Christmas. Because of COVID our “gatherings” will look quite different this year, but we all will still be part of an exciting and joyous time.

For many families, though, this time of year is not so joyous. They struggle daily to ensure their children have warm clothes, food and basic living items. Toys are a luxury for them. The pandemic has made this even more difficult.

For many years our Westminster congregation has participated in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Christmas Basket program. The Westminster Deacons have received information from the DHHS about three families that we can help during this Christmas season. Collectively, these families include nine children, ages 2–16, and their mothers. Gift requests are mostly for food and clothing for the children; we have also received several toy requests.

The Deacons need your help in supporting these local families. The list of requested gift items follows this article. To choose an item to purchase, please use the online sign-up form here. Type your name in the “Westminster members” column opposite the gift item you choose (you may need to scroll to the right). Gifts should be purchased, wrapped and ready for delivery no later than December 11.

Once your gift is purchased and wrapped:

• Attach a note card to the gift, indicating which family and child the gift is for and what is inside. (Example: Family #1, girl aged 3, doll)
• Include gift receipts whenever possible, especially if purchasing clothing.
• Deacons will contact you to arrange for a drop-off or pick-up of your gift during the week of December 7–11. 

Deacons are also collecting cash donations to provide gift certificates to these local families for food, and personal and household needs. Contributions for these gift cards may be mailed to the church office or made electronically on the church website giving page. Watch this short video to learn more. 

The Deacons will deliver the gifts and gift certificates to each of the families on the weekend of December 18.

If all of this sounds overwhelming, since everything is now online, please contact your Care Group deacon for assistance. He or she will be more than happy to walk you through this process or help in whatever capacity you might need. Please don’t let technology hinder your generosity or participation.

We know how appreciative these families are of your help. Thanks so much for your continued support, and thanks be to God for the many blessings we receive.