Adopt-a-Child seeks donations

BRIDGTON — Last year, nearly 200 Bridgton children received Christmas gifts like warm coats, pants and sweaters through the First Congregational Church’s Adopt-a-Child for Christmas clothing distribution program.

In a continuing tough economy, organizers expect to serve even more children and families this year, and invite you or your business to participate by “adopting” one or more children.

“Families struggling to make ends meet can have a tough time during the holidays,” said Charlotte Nolan, Chair of the Adopt-a-Child for Christmas Program. “Our program makes it possible for parents in need to get warm clothing – like a new pair of jeans, hats and gloves, or snow boots - for their children in time for Christmas. And when you “adopt” a child through the program, you get to experience the true spirit of Christmas.”

Here’s how it works. Parents fill out a “Wish List” form for their eligible children and return it to the church. Each child’s clothing requests, age and sizes are then listed on cards.

“Adopters” pick out one or more cards and use them to purchase the gifts the child’s or children’s parents have requested. Organizers also use donations to purchase gifts for children. Adopters return the unwrapped gifts to the church, and parents then pick up the gifts in time for Christmas gift-giving.

If you would like to contribute to the program, you can send your check with “adopt-a-child” in the memo section to First Congregational Church, P.O. Box 243, Bridgton, ME 04009; drop off your donation at the church office any weekday between 9 a.m. and 12 noon; or if you’d like to purchase the gifts yourself, call Charlotte Nolan at 776-0654 to request a child’s wish list card.

Wish list cards will also be posted at the church on November 25 and December 2.

If you are a parent and would like to sign up for the program, pick up .a Wish List form at the church office any weekday morning or at Jeanette’s Closet, the church’s no-cost clothing closet, on Tuesday mornings.

You can also e-mail the coordinator at cjnolan765@gmail.com. Forms must be returned by November 16.