It’s the season of giving, and here at Family Centers, anonymous donors are giving families in need gifts to help make this Christmas special.
“In Greenwich, there is extreme wealth and you see it everyday. But what you don’t necessarily know or see are the people that are in true need,” said Amy Sethi.
“There’s a lot of giving this time of year. There’s also a lot of asking that happens. We are fortunate here at Family Centers because this is a feel good project,” said Jen Flatow, Volunteer Manager at Family Centers.
The Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program matches families in need with donors that buy gifts for the whole family.
Case managers suggest families needing some extra assistance around the holidays to Flatow. From there, she matches the family with a donor.
“We really encourage our donors to shop for the families just like were a family member or friend. The client gets the gifts and they have no idea that this is even happening. It’s really a wonderful program and it really speaks to what generous community that we’re in,” said Flatow.
This year, Flatow says 56 families have been served through this program. Amy Sethi is on the Family Centers’ Associate Board of Directors and donated gifts to a family with four boys through this program.
“One got a remote control monster truck. One got a drone- that was for the teenage boy. One got Mind Craft Legos. One got sports balls and toys,” said Sethi.
But, Flatow says some families need the basics like bedding, jackets, or boots.
“This time of year is really about children and families. If we can help to foster the relationship, make it a little better for someone, that’s all we are asking for,” said Flatow.
Flatow says Family Centers wants to expand this program because these families are need all year round.
“While children need winter boots and coats and toys for the holidays, they also need shorts and sneakers in the summertime,” said Flatow.
“There’s nothing that brings it back home and brings you back to reality than seeing these people that live right down the street are in such need. To be able to and hopefully put smiles not heir faces on Christmas morning, there’s nothing better, in my mind, for your soul,” said Sethi.
If you would like to help families in need, visit www.familycenters.org for more information.
