Holiday Help for a Healthy, Happy New Year!
by Lauren Melillo, Sandwich Partnership for Families
Working with children and families in the community, we have become aware of the differences in what families can afford, and how fortunate many in our community are.
But that is not true of everyone. Approximately 37% of all our families with school-aged qualify for free or reduced school lunches. Sandwich has many families who, because of health issues, changes in employment, and family disruption, face financial challenges every day.
“The things that most of us take for granted, suddenly become heart-breaking for struggling families ; for instance, an infant waking in the night with a fever. For most of us, there is Baby Tylenol in the medicine cabinet. For some of us, it might mean a quick trip to the pharmacy. But for those parents who may not have the money or transportation, it becomes a crisis.”
Of course, staying healthy is preferable to treating illness, but without the supplies to fight germs and bacteria, the winter cold and flu season is especially problematic. Many of these necessities aren’t available through Food Pantries, WIC or SNAP benefits (Food Stamps).
Join us in teaching children the value of sharing by helping others! Take the Dollar Item Challenge by shopping with your child to purchase items for those who need help staying warm, clean and safe in the upcoming year.
All of the items below can be found at any dollar store, so let your child help you shop, and talk about why these items are needed, and how they are helping.
The Sandwich Partnership for Families will decorate gift bags and assemble $5 packages appropriate for men, women and children. These will be donated to families and elders in need; at the Village Family Shelter, A Baby Center, The Council On Aging, and the Sandwich Food Pantry.
The items listed can be brought to the Discovery Center at the Sandwich Library or to the Main Office at the Wing School. Deadline for donations is December 19th, so that packages can be assembled and distributed.
- Facial tissues
- Baby wipes
- Baby Bath
- Baby Shampoo
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Deodorants
- Liquid soap
- Detergent
- Dish detergent
- Sponges
- Hair Brushes & Bands
- Antibacterial cleaning wipes
- Gloves
- Underwear
- Warm socks (all sizes)
- Razors
- Shaving cream
- Feminine Hygiene supplies
- Pain & Fever relievers (adult & child)
- Q-tips