The Gram Lorraine Children’s Christmas Clothing Program, which provides clothing and gifts to area children, is in need of sponsors.
More than 1,000 children received at least four items of clothing and a toy, game or book of their choice through the program last year, and the program is anticipated to reach this figure, if not exceed it, this year, organizers said.
The Herkimer County Hunger Coalition recently announced the start of the program, but a lack of early sponsorship commitments has organizers worried.
Ray Lenarcic, hunger coalition director, said the program is in “dire need” of sponsors to ensure it can meet its goal. But he felt the community is sure to answer the call, adding, “We’re going to make it.”
Participating school districts include Frankfort-Schuyler (Reese Road and West Frankfort elementary schools), Ilion (Barringer Road and Remington elementary schools), Little Falls, Mohawk, Mount Markham, Owen D. Young and Poland, as well as the Herkimer County BOCES Even Start family literacy program.
The children reached by the program are selected by nurses and staff at their respective schools.
Sponsors are requested to purchase the aforementioned four items of clothing and a toy, game or book of the child’s choice. The Herkimer County Hunger Coalition is accepting sponsors up until the third week in December.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a child through program is asked to call 866-7765 or to write to the Herkimer County Hunger Coalition at P.O. Box 622, Herkimer, NY 13350.