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November 16, 2023A Very Giving Christmas is a gift distribution program for low-income families from Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. The program takes different approaches based on the community and the familial need.
Theresa Flannery, senior director of social services, explained how the process works for families in the OKC-metro area.
“In Oklahoma City, families who are receiving services through one of our social service programs are identified and referred to the program. Depending on the number of requests received in-house, we open applications to the community. Our typical budget is approximately $100 per child and last year we were able to serve 160 children in Oklahoma City-based programs. To avoid community duplication in the metro, we work closely with the Salvation Army and refer families who qualify for the Angel Tree program,” Flannery said.
Flannery went on to explain that depending on community outreach and interest, the Oklahoma City program has provided coats for all family members. In addition, church sponsors frequently provide support to the family beyond gifts for the children.
“This varies year-to-year. For example, in 2022, The Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Christ the King Catholic Church parishes sponsored multiple families. In addition, several individuals from the community sponsored families. The Knights of Columbus have been amazing in providing coats for families in previous years. Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Knights of Columbus assists annually with providing toys for the children,” Flannery said.
The Catholic Charities offices in Lawton and Enid provide Christmas gifts for families in need who reside in Catholic Charities sponsored low-income family housing. Last year, the Lawton office served 21 children and the Enid office served 141 family members.
This year, there have been 17 requests for bikes and helmets. Those who would like to donate a bike and helmet can contact Carmen Luevano at cluevano@ccaokc.org or (405) 523-3000, Ext. 125. The deadline to donate a bike and helmet is Dec. 1.
Other needed donation items include gift cards for holiday meals, hats, gloves and other winter clothing items. Rolls of wrapping paper and scotch tape are also needed. Donation items can be dropped off at Catholic Charities, 1232 N. Classen Blvd. in Oklahoma City by Dec. 7. Donated items do not have to be wrapped.
Currently, Catholic Charities has received requests to serve approximately 175 children.
Flanery said they are thankful for the sponsors who have volunteered to assist families in giving gifts to their children.
Those interested in assisting families in Lawton or Woodward can contact Carmen Luevano at cluevano@ccaokc.org or (405) 523-300, Ext. 125. To assist families in Enid, contact the Enid office at enid@ccaokc.org or call Stacy Kurtz at (580) 237-7352
Courtney Rhone is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
