Locals looking to get in the holiday spirit can now sign up for several volunteer projects with United Way that focus on giving back to people in need in the Historic Triangle.
The organization, which coordinates both fundraising and volunteer initiatives throughout the Greater Williamsburg area, is focusing on the basics this time of year: food, shelter and a little bit of holiday magic.
Volunteers are needed for an upcoming food distribution day and two furniture moving projects for the nonprofit’s housing program, as well as to “adopt” families in need of children’s Christmas presents this holiday season.
The United for Food program started two years ago with the goal of partnering United Way with the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank in Hampton and FeedMore Foodbank in Richmond to provide a monthly food distribution in the Historic Triangle. The food distribution serves 245 individuals on average each month, according to United Way.
This month’s food distribution is Thursday at the United Way Community Resource Center. Volunteers are needed between 1:30 and 3 p.m. to help unload and bag food as well as to assist community members with “shopping” from among the foods provided.
United Way is also looking for volunteers to help with several moves taking place as a part of its Home for Good program, which helps homeless and precariously housed families move into stable, permanent housing.
Moves will take place Dec. 21 and Jan. 8, and volunteers will be needed throughout each day to help load and unload furniture as it is transported from storage units to the new homes.
Finally, United Way is continuing its annual tradition of connecting families in need with holiday sponsors to provide Christmas gifts like toys and clothing for children who otherwise might go without this holiday season.
Of the 76 families identified for sponsorship this year, 10 remain in need of “adoption” by an individual, business or organization. Sponsors will be provided with a list of children’s ages, clothing sizes and most wanted toys and will then have the opportunity to shop for their adopted family and be a part of providing them with a Christmas to remember.
Individuals interested in volunteering for the food distribution should contact Sharon Gibson-Ellis at 757-253-2264. Potential volunteers for the furniture moving should contact Victor Towns at 757-253-2264. To inquire about the adopt-a-family initiative, contact Kandice Leochner at 757-229-2222.
