The list of what CHFK does is endless.
"Jean, I really like giving you a check," said Bob, a regular donor to Christine's Hope for Kids.
"Wow, Bob, I really like it too!" replied Jean Gianacaci, founder of Christine's Hope for Kids (CHFK).
"No really," said Bob. "I feel like when I give Christine's Hope for Kids a donation it goes, 'poof!' I see you doing work at Children's Home Society, WomanSpace, HomeFront and so many other places, and I feel like a little bit of my donation is there too."
So often, the folks of CHFK say they are asked, "What is it that you do?" The short answer is: They give kids a chance to just be kids.
Right now, that means an office overflowing with boxes. Boxes of toys. Boxes of books. Boxes of candy canes, teddy bears, pajamas and games. It means planning and organizing groups of volunteers to pack, stuff and organize all the items for the holiday season.
In January, school programs start. At CHFK, it is not just about the money being raised. It is about teaching kids the importance of giving back. And it is about showing them where their donations are going.
So, CHFK hosts pajama days, penny wars and book collections. They visit each school, meet the kids and bring in representatives from the organizations that will benefit. They order pajamas, toothbrushes, toothpaste, teddy bears and books. They pack and unpack. They load and unload the van countless times over the course of the year to bring kids some hope and a smile.
There are parties to be had at local shelters with art projects, cupcakes and games. There is food to be collected and organized for food pantries. There are books to be collected, picked up and delivered. There are summer camps to be supported and visited. There are blankets and pajamas to be delivered to families affected by disaster. Kids who cannot afford to play ball are given cleats and gear. The list of what CHFK does is endless.
Perhaps you have seen the Christine's Hope for Kids van roaming the streets. Any time you do, know it is on its way to do something special. Maybe it is going to deliver some books or new backpacks, or maybe transport some volunteers with party supplies. A piece of your donation is also in that van bringing a smile to someone who needs it most.
Christine's Hope for Kids is counting on your donations to give more kids in our community the chance to just be kids. Your donation to the 2015 Times Holiday Appeal will help Christine's Hope for Kids continue its mission to help kids in need in our community.
NJM Insurance Group of West Trenton has pledged to donate $1,000 for every $5,000 contributed by the community and other business donors throughout the 2015 campaign.
To make a donation to support Christine's Hope for Kids, make your check payable to The Times Holiday Appeal and mail to Times Charities, Inc., 413 River View Plaza, Trenton, NJ 08611.
All gifts will be acknowledged in The Times. Anonymity will be granted, if requested.
For more information about Christine's Hope for Kids, go to www.christineshope.org.
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