The St. Francois Caring Communities has been collecting money and donations for families in need since the program began in 1999.

Families in need have been on the rise this year because of the amount of jobs lost in the surrounding communities. The average for the state of Missouri is 19 percent for families at poverty level. St. Francois County averages 19.8 percent, while Farmington is only 16.3 percent.

More than 1,400 families have been referred to the St. Francois County Caring Communities so far this year, however they are still expecting some families to come in. About 500 families have been sponsored so far. Family members are “sponsored” when a caring citizen, family or group decides to buy Christmas gifts for that person for the holiday.

The big item on the wish lists this year are coats. There are about 137 coats listed. Families also need jeans, tennis shoes, socks, underwear and other necessities, and some toys.

The children are refereed by the Division of Family Services, Children’s Division and the school districts. Those organizations make sure there are actual needs, and try to see that all families receive items for Christmas.

“There are three basic ways to help. Sponsoring a family is one and is very helpful. You go out and do the shopping for one family or however many you choose. Sunday Schools, organizations and businesses either do the shopping or donate money.

“Some businesses are choosing to donate money instead of sending out Christmas cards this year. Sometimes just by donating money to help pay for items is a big help. Everything is tax deductible,” said Al Sullivan, director of St. Francois Caring Communities.

Caring Communities has volunteers to organize the items. They begin getting items together for families on Dec. 4, so that families will have them in time for the holidays.

Items are dropped off at school offices and families come pick them up. The items for the families will be completed and dropped off at schools by Dec. 19.

Sullivan said the organization has had many groups around the community help out. The Samaritan Lodge in Bonne Terre donated 160 aluminum baseball bats. Businesses and others have been having toy drives. Clothes have also been collected to hand out.

This project helps families to have Christmas and also gives parents dignity of seeing their children have something for the holidays. Workers with Caring Communities go on a shopping spree to spend cash donations on buying needed items to fulfill wish lists. Last year the organization bought coats and items at Value City. However this year with the store closing, they are being forced to search other places for some items.

The deadline for donations is Dec. 3, however, if you would like to donate and do not have items in by then you are asked to call 431-3173 to find out how to give.

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