To date, the 2012 Warm the Children Campaign has raised $45,548.19 this year, and seen many children benefit from the gift of new warm winter clothing. Both volunteers and recipients have shared their stories about how the spirit of the program has touched their hearts.
Thousands of households in the Washtenaw County area have been affected by this community act of kindness. If you have worked with the campaign, you know of its benefits firsthand.
We want to hear your stories.
As a recipient or a volunteer, as a first timer, or a longtime supporter, we want to hear from you. If you are willing to share your stories, please comment below, or email angieannarbor@gmail.com. Shared information may be included in an upcoming Warm the Children feature column.
If you are interested in becoming involved in the Warm the Children campaign, there are a number of options for doing so:
Donate: If you would like to contribute to Warm the Children, check our website for details, or call the Warm the Children hotline at 734-623-2525. Donate are also accepted at any United Bank and Trust branch.
Volunteer: Members of the community can give in a way that feels meaningful, even if they cannot afford to support financially this year. Warm the Children works with volunteers who offer their time as personal shoppers to shop with the recipient families.
Each year, AnnArbor.com receives many notes and phone calls sharing stories of gratitude from recipients and volunteer shoppers alike. Sharing in the joy of the children and their parents has become a cherished winter tradition for many of the volunteers who help the families with their purchases. If you have an hour or two to help out with this effort, contact Warm the Children via the Hotline, website, or coupon listing below.
Spread the word: Do you know a family that could benefit from this program? Participation is based on need, and referrals happen through school and community social workers. Do you know of a group that is looking for a special way to give back to the community this season? Suggest they create an event to raise funds for Warm the Children.