CrossNet Christmas program handbook created

Lisa Kerstetter, community events manager with CrossNet Ministries, saw the need for winter coats jump when CrossNet held its fall drive this year. In August, the need for backpacks had jumped too. Having provided Christmas gifts to more than 500 ELANCO School District children in 2022, Kerstetter anticipates serving more than 600 this year.

To make it easier for donors to sponsor local children, at a suggested donation of $100 per child, Kerstetter has created the "CrossNet Christmas Gift Giving Guide - Sponsor/Donor Handbook." The 20-page guide covers everything from the mission of the program - to ease financial burdens, build resources, and support under-resourced families - to how-to steps for organizing a giving tree. All the program basics are explained, along with the many giving options that are offered. "Everything is in one spot," said Kerstetter, who noted that the booklet can be downloaded from the website at https://elancocross.org. Those wishing to sponsor a local family are asked to contact CrossNet by calling 717-355-2454 or emailing lisa@elancocross.org by Friday, Nov. 17.

In addition to sponsorship, Kerstetter has had 20 donation bins placed in community areas. Items that may be placed in bins include sports equipment, children's books, Legos, board games, craft sets, and stocking stuffer items. Kerstetter noted that area residents are also welcome to hold their own toy drives and bring the items to CrossNet at 123 W. Franklin St., New Holland.

Those who prefer to give smaller items may take part in a stocking stuffer drive. Items that are sought include small toys and books, keychains, playing cards, candy, earbuds, lip balm, travel-size personal items, sticky notes, and jewelry sets. Stocking stuffer items should be delivered to CrossNet by Friday, Dec. 8.

Last year, Kerstetter encouraged sponsors to consider purchasing gift cards for teenagers in the community. The option to benefit students in the ninth grade and above, offers young people the opportunity to make their own purchases. Kerstetter likes to pair the gift cards with kits of personal care items.

On Saturday, Dec. 9, sponsored families will come to CrossNet to pick up their gifts. In addition to gifts, families will receive a Christmas meal, including a whole ham, potatoes, and all the fixings to cook; cookies; and wrapping paper and tape.

The "CrossNet Christmas Gift Giving Guide - Sponsor/Donor Handbook" dedicates a page to the "Journey of a Wish List," detailing how the program works from the time families apply to qualify through the day of the gift pickup. Kerstetter included a glossary of terms the organization uses, a page for important dates and locations, and copies of forms the program utilizes.

Adult volunteers are always needed during workshop week - Monday, Dec. 4, through Friday, Dec. 8 - to help sort incoming gifts. Volunteers are also needed during the event on Dec. 9. Donations of wrapping paper and tape will be appreciated as well. Readers who wish to volunteer may contact Kerstetter at the aforementioned phone number or email.