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Get into the holiday spirit by adopting a family in need

JANESVILLE — ECHO needs people willing to help those less fortunate this holiday season.

"We are seeking more donors this year so we can assist even more families and individuals in this time of economic hardship. Our Adopt-A-Family Program is a great way to help," said Jessica Schafer, client advocate.

Community generosity helped ECHO assist 74 low-income people and families during the holidays in 2008. This year, the local faith-sponsored charity hopes to help 100 individuals and families, she said.

For that to happen, 100 people will have to contact ECHO and request to help households with one to 10 family members, she said.

"All of those in this program either live on Social Security, disability or work jobs that pay minimum wage or just a few dollars more," Schafer said.

It's a struggle for them to pay for food, rent and utilities, Schafer said.

Two weeks after adopting a family, people will get a wish list outlining what the family needs and for whom.

Those who adopt a family must be willing to buy five clothing items and five fun items—spending the same amount of money on each person—plus five household items to benefit everybody in the house, Schafer said.

"They go out and purchase, wrap and deliver to ECHO by Dec. 15 for client pick up or deliver to the family in time for Christmas,'' she said.

Those who miss the deadline or feel they can't afford to adopt a whole family are asked to donate toys to ECHO's holiday toy program.

Unwrapped toys and holiday wrapping paper can be dropped off at the ECHO office, 65 S. High St. by Thursday, Dec. 17. Distribution is Friday, Dec. 18. If the weather is bad, a snow date of Saturday, Dec. 19, is scheduled.

Last year, ECHO provided Christmas toys to 901 children from 369 families, Schafer said.

ECHO also was able to provide Christmas trees and decorations to 120 families.