Families in the Sausal neighborhood of Portola Valley are taking part — for the third year — in the Salvation Army’s “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program and they could use a little help from their friends, as well as strangers.
Each year the local Salvation Army provides a list of families that have very little for their children during the holiday season. Each family member is identified by first name only, and their ages, sizes and wish list are included. Volunteers shop for gifts, which are delivered to the Salvation Army by Dec. 18. A food certificate from a local grocery store is also included.
There are four ways to help, according to Marty and Donna Mackowski, who organized the annual drive: cash donations (tax deductible), adopting an entire family ($200-$300), shopping for and wrapping toys, and delivering gifts. Donor identities are not revealed.
“We receive thank you cards from the families and pictures from the Salvation Army,” says Ms. Mackowski.
Last year 22 Sausal neighborhood families donated nearly $3,500. At first, the neighbors adopted five families from the Salvation Army. When their deadline passed, with donations still arriving, the group adopted eight more families from the Haven House transitional facilities in Redwood City and Menlo Park.
The Mackowskis would like to hear from anyone interested in helping with the “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program. Call them at 851-1802 or e-mail vistamartym@yahoo.com.
