Holiday Assistance Provides More Joy for the Season
Dec. 10 2020

Holiday Assistance Provides More Joy for the Season

Most of us look forward to the holiday season – a time of gift-giving, delicious family meals, and warm memories. For some residents of our community, the holidays are a stressful time, with money concerns often dimming the brightness of the season.

Together as a community, we believe everyone has the right to celebrate. That’s why we provide holiday assistance to those in need, offering a glimmer of hope through difficult economic times. The Holiday Assistance client guidelines through Operation Sunshine are families must have children living in their residence 13 years and younger and must reside in Oneida or Herkimer County.

Operation Sunshine can help provide toys, hats/gloves, and a holiday meal for your family.  If you or someone you know needs assistance this holiday season, you may contact one of these partner agencies in our area:

  • The Neighborhood Center, Inc.
  • Catholic Charities of Herkimer
  • Catholic Charities of Oneida and Madison Counties
  • Salvation Army of Rome
  • Salvation Army of Utica
  • Utica Rescue Mission

Local Supporters of Operation Sunshine include:

  • Toys for Tots – U.S. Marine Corp.
  • Connected Community Schools
  • Mack Utica
  • Keeler in the Morning – WBIX 950am
  • New York Sash Teddy Bear Toss
  • Spectrum
  • WUTR ABC / WFXV 33

Not in need this year and want to help us make a difference? Here are some ideas!

‘Adopt’ a Family – Each donor will be provided with a wish list from a local family including specific sizes and gift ideas.

Host a toy drive. Looking to help during the holidays but you’re not sure you want to participate in our ‘adopt’ a family program? This is the perfect option.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact:

Jennifer Waite, Director of Group Work at The Neighborhood Center at 315-272-2600, jenniferw@neighborhoodctr.org