They say that even a miracle needs a hand, and the Adopt-a-Family program of the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation is a chance for members of the campus community to extend that hand to local families in need.

Sponsors may be departments, offices, or individuals, says Mary Anne Beaudoin in the office of Public Affairs and Communications, who coordinates the campus Adopt-a-Family effort.

“Our generous sponsors help to ensure happy holidays for so many children in Windsor-Essex,” she says. “Families are experiencing a variety of difficulties and our assistance will lessen their worries in providing for their children during the holiday season.”

The foundation requests that sponsors focus on food and clothing as well as toys. These items are often financially difficult for the families to obtain. Sponsors may also include a gift for the parent or the home as well.

Sponsors may choose a small, medium or large-sized family or a youth on extended care. Small families consist of a single parent and child; a large family may have two parents and four children. A youth on extended care is an individual over the age of 16 years old living independently, attending school and trying to manage on a very limited budget.

To adopt a family, contact Beaudoin at 519-253-3000, ext. 3240 or e-mail mbeaud@uwindsor.ca. A profile of the family and their wishes will then be sent to you, with a list of things to keep in mind when delivering your gifts.

All gifts are due by Wednesday, December 4, in front of the main entrance to Essex Hall—a truck will take delivery of donations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.