* What does it mean to sponsor a family? A family that is sponsored is given new gifts for each person in the family. Those gifts are guided by a list of needs/wishes the family provides (along with sizes, etc.). The needs will range from basic clothing necessities to household goods. We have families that range from very small to very large and we will help you find the family that best fits your giving parameters. We also sponsor senior citizens. * Who sponsors the families? Individuals, families, organizations, playgroups, neighborhoods, businesses, etc. are welcome to play Santa in our Christmas 'Baskets' Sponsor A Family Program. * What is included in the "basket"? The word 'basket' doesn't do justice to what our sponsored families receive! Along with the new gifts that are purchased for the families, local schools host a huge toy drive to ensure that every child receives at least one new toy or gift card. Glenbard West supplies toiletries through their school-run toiletry drive that is distributed to each family as well. In addition, civic organizations within Glen Ellyn generously provide funding so that we, working with the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry, can purchase enough food for each family to receive several bags of non-perishable groceries, plus gift cards to purchase fresh items. * Who delivers to the families? Volunteers! Anyone who would like to bring joy to a family is welcome to be a part of our delivery team. Many groups that sponsor a family also choose to deliver personally - though this is by no means a requirement. Glen Ellyn's Volunteer Fire Department is one of our largest volunteer groups ... they deliver all morning long! * Where do these families live? All our sponsored families are local and live within the boundaries of Glen Ellyn and Glen Ellyn School Districts. * How are the families identified? School social workers identify families in need. We typically serve approximately 100 families and over 30 Seniors; affecting over 500 individuals each year. * Are there other ways to help? You can purchase gifts, donate money or gift cards, donate gifts, toys, or supplies (gift bags of all sizes, tape, tissue and wrapping paper) or donate your time. We NEED VOLUNTEERS to help us wrap toys from the toy drive, organize and sort food and toiletries, organize/assemble the "baskets" and deliver the entire lot to the sponsored families. Do not have time to sponsor a family, volunteer on Super Thursday, or pariticipate in our toy drive, etc.? Please consider donating to our Christmas 'Baskets' Sponsor A Family Program. Glen Ellyn Junior Woman's Club is so fortunate to be able to coordinate this project with the participation of such a generous and supportive community. Last year, our Christmas 'Baskets' Sponsor A Family Program brought the magic of the season to 602 people in 148 families within our community. Parkview's gym was packed with thoughtfully chosen gifts for each person along with food, toiletries, and extra toys and books for all the kids. Every little bit helps and any donation we receive provides a little piece of the Magic of Christmas to all our recipient families. * Where is the location? Parkview Community Church (764 St. Charles Rd, Glen Ellyn - in front of Ackerman Park) has graciously offered the use of their facility again this year.