More families in the region could use a boost this year to help make Christmas special for their children.
The Inn of the Good Shepherd's Adopt a Family program is well underway with just a few weeks until Christmas Day.
Executive Director Myles Vanni said the Inn is "a little worried" as about 400 families have signed up so far to receive support this year.
"Hearing the stories from families, how many are struggling because there's been very little employment over the years because of COVID," said Vanni. "We're seeing families we've never seen before, who have never approached us before for help."
About 360 families were sponsored during last year's program.
As of December 1, there are approximately 40 families who still need to be 'adopted'. Vanni said there are also some financial sponsors who have contributed to the program for organizers to do the shopping on their behalf.
There is no firm deadline for families to apply, however, it would be preferred if the information is submitted by December 13 for shopping purposes.
"We've been doing this for about eight or nine years and the most important part of the program is we want to make sure those kids' wishes are looked at," said Vanni. "The families provide the wish list for the kids and it's about having that excitement Christmas morning where the child looks under the tree, and that special toy they've asked for is there."
A new feature this year is the online form for families and sponsors to fill out for convenience purposes.
