CrossNet To Help Bring Gifts To ELANCO Children

Lisa Kerstetter, director of marketing and events with CrossNet Ministries, wants donors to the Christmas Gift Program to know that have several options for purchasing items for the 2021 event. "If people don't like to shop for gifts or toys, they can donate gift cards. Teens really like gift cards," said Kerstetter.

Organizers of the CrossNet Christmas Gift Program expect to serve more than 500 ELANCO School District children who regularly receive free lunches or who have been financially affected by COVID-19 restrictions. To provide the program, CrossNet offers area residents the opportunity to take part in one or more of three giving programs.

First, participants may choose to sponsor a local family. Those opting for this route will receive a wish list for each child in the family. The list will include items children need and want, along with a reading suggestion. Individuals and groups that would like to sponsor a family should contact CrossNet at 717-355-2454 by Thursday, Nov. 11, so Kerstetter can match donors with families.

The second option is to bring a toy to a local donation bin. Kerstetter has 20 toy collection bins to be placed in churches, businesses, or other areas of the community. Organizations that would like a bin to fill may contact CrossNet. Toys that may be placed in bins include miniature cars, sports equipment, children's books, action figure toys, Legos, board games, educational baby toys, craft sets, and stocking stuffer items. Items should be placed in bins by Thursday, Dec. 2.

A third way to take part in the program is to give to the stocking stuffer drive. Items that are sought include small toys and books, keychains, playing cards, glow sticks, harmonicas, candy, chewing gum, earbuds, lip balm, travel-size personal items, hair accessories, sticky notes, stickers, small puzzles, wallets, jewelry sets, and beef jerky. Stocking stuffer items should be delivered to the CrossNet Youth Center at 110 W. Franklin St., New Holland, by Wednesday, Dec. 8. Donation hours will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7, and 8.

On Saturday, Dec. 11, sponsored families will come to CrossNet to pick up their gifts. Kerstetter explained that recipients will receive their gifts; a Christmas meal, including a whole ham, potatoes, and all the fixings to cook; and cookies, along with wrapping paper and tape. "They can wrap gifts there or at home," Kerstetter said. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention protocols at the time of the pickup will be practiced.

Adult volunteers are needed to help sort incoming gifts during the week prior to the event, and some volunteers will be needed on Dec. 11. Donations of wrapping paper and tape will be appreciated as well. Readers who wish to volunteer may call the CrossNet office or email lisa@elancocross.org.