LIMA – Allen County Children Services (ACCS) is seeking sponsors for our annual Christmas gift program that purchases presents for children involved with our agency.

It’s a great way for families, local businesses, churches, and individuals to help children and families less fortunate at the Holidays. Sponsors are matched with families, given contact information and a “wish list” from which to shop. Sponsors may deliver presents to the family or drop presents off at our agency at 123 W. Spring St., for us to deliver.

The Adopt-A-Family program brings Christmas to more than 200 families annually and it’s all made possible thanks to the generous support of people in our community. The program has been running for more than 30 years.

Families served by our agency face many struggles while they work to try to get to the point they no longer need our help. One of their biggest struggles is financially and our Adopt-A-Family program fills the void to ensure children can experience Christmas. For parents, it’s one less worry knowing their children will enjoy a Christmas just like other children.

For those unable to purchase presents but who still want to help, they can make a donation. Donations may be made by sending a check made payable to Allen County Children Services with “Adopt A Family” written in the memo section. Donations help purchase toys, food for families and other basic needs.

Here’s how an individual, family, business or group can help:

1. Downloaded a sponsor application at AllenCSB.com
2. Call our agency at 419-227-8590. Ask for Greg Sowinski to have a sponsor application sent to you.
3. Emailing Greg at Greg.Sowinski@JFS.Ohio.gov  to request an application.
4. Fill out and send in the sponsor application no later than Nov. 1.
5. Matching of sponsors with families will take place in early to mid November.