Annual Adult Gift Drive  – Wish Lists Fulfilled for 105 Adults in the Care of the State

This was the twenty-third year of a gift giving tradition that began in 2002 to connect church members and friends with adults in the care of the State during the holiday season.  The adults are either elderly or developmentally delayed and their families are unable to care for them.   With the help of their caseworkers, these adults create wish lists of gift ideas.  Church members then pick one of those lists and select one or more gifts from the list to purchase.  Gifts are brought back to the church wrapped and tagged and they are picked up by the caseworkers and delivered to the recipients.

What began with around 30 adults has now grown to a list of over 100, many of whom we have been giving gifts to for many years.  This year the generosity of the church has not only given gifts to 105 adults but also provided their caseworkers with just over $1,000 in gift cards.  These gift cards allow caseworkers to provide for their clients critical needs as they arise during the year.

This year several of the caseworkers shared their appreciation for the generosity and consistency with which First Church has supported their clients over the years.

“I thoroughly appreciate the Church! I can’t explain the happiness and excitement when they open their presents! Thank you again for everything you do for us!” – Ashlon N.

“Please thank everyone in your congregation, from the bottom of our hearts, thank all of you for your generous gifts every year.  Your unwavering support allow us to continue serving our Guardianship Clients and spreading God’s love.  We are deeply grateful for your church members faithfulness and commitment to the Health and Human Service Guardianship Service Department.” – Sharon W.

“I would just like to take this opportunity to thank the church for the incredible generosity that has been shown to our individuals.  This has been my 9th Christmas with Guardianship, and it never ceases to amaze me the number of blessings the church provides for those we serve.  It is a testament to the kindness and generous nature of the congregation, as they continue to shower our individuals with an abundance of joy at Christmas through their giving.  We are truly grateful for the church, as you make the Christmas season a whole lot brighter.  The smiles that you all bring to the faces of our people when we deliver your gifts to them is priceless.  Thank you again for everything you do.” – Julie M.