The turnout for Adopt-A-Child has been so strong, organizers have announced a second sign-up day for families in need.
More than 145 children were registered by their parents on Thursday — more than all of 2019 — with the expectation that additional families are still adversely the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through Adopt-A-Child, benefactors purchase gifts and other essentials such as clothes or shoes for a child for Christmas.
The second sign-up day is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Iola’s First Baptist Church, 801 N. Cottonwood St.
Those seeking assistance are asked to bring identification with a current address, as well as their child’s Social Security and State of Kansas medical cards.
No private information will be recorded. The cards simply must be shown to demonstrate recipients live in Allen County, have custody of their children and have a need for help.
Parents also are asked to list their child’s clothing and shoe sizes and needs, plus ideas for non-clothing gifts.
THOSE wishing to donate items or “adopt” a child or family, are asked to call First Baptist Church, 365-2779. The same goes for parents with questions about registering their child.
All gifts need to be delivered to the church by Dec. 1.
Alternatively, cash donations may be made any time throughout the year by taking them to Emprise Bank for deposit into the Adopt-A-Child bank account. All money will be used to purchase gifts.
Aiding First Baptist Church are the Iola Police Department, Allen Community College athletics programs and others in the community.
WRAPPED gifts will be available for parents to pick up at the church between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Dec. 9.
