November 13, 2007

The Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services' Community Resources Office (CRO) is seeking sponsors to provide holiday meals to individuals and families in need. So far, DSS has received more than 750 applications requesting assistance with Thanksgiving meals; 400 of these requests are in need of a sponsor.

The Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services' (CRO) is seeking sponsors to provide holiday meals to individuals and families in need. So far, DSS has received more than 750 applications requesting assistance with Thanksgiving meals; 400 of these requests are in need of a sponsor.

The CRO Holiday Meal Sponsorship program provides ingredients for Thanksgiving or Christmas meals to families who are less fortunate. A sponsor can choose a family based on its size, and will receive assistance from a human service professional to work out any special needs, along with the delivery date and time. CRO staff will match the size of the family to the sponsor's desired outcome. The sponsor delivers the ingredients to the client's home.

CALL TO HELP: The CRO holiday meal program is a great way to get involved and help those who are less fortunate. Individuals, companies, groups, or families who wish to make a difference during this holiday season are encouraged to call 704-336-4809 to be added to the list of holiday sponsors.

The CRO holiday meal program is a great way to get involved and help those who are less fortunate. Individuals, companies, groups, or families who wish to make a difference during this holiday season are encouraged to call to be added to the list of holiday sponsors.

In addition, sponsors who donate a meal at Christmas time are also asked to buy at least one new item of clothing, one age appropriate book for each child under age 18 living in the home, and one new age appropriate toy or gift for each person in the home.

The CRO serves as a connecting link between generous community donors, human service agencies and the residents of Mecklenburg County. Group and individual contributions make it possible to assist many who otherwise would miss out on a warm and joyous holiday experience.