Struggling families seek help for the holidaysby Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)
A long line of people waited at the Salvation Army office in Elkhart to apply for Christmas assistance — a program to help with food, toys and clothing for the holiday season. (WSBT photo) ELKHART — With seven weeks left until Christmas, more and more local families are looking for help this year. Multimedia Related Content
Tough economic times have already created a huge jump in demand at one local social service agency. "There's quite a few more families that we're anticipating we'll be seeing this year," said Capt. Steve Woodard of the Salvation Army in Elkhart. On a day before the presidential election, you might think people would be waiting in line to vote. But this long line on Monday morning was at the Salvation Army office in Elkhart. They were signing up for the Christmas assistance. The program helps eligible families with food, toys and clothing for the holiday season. “I'm seeing so many new families — because of the economy, because a lot of the layoffs — sometimes not wanting to be here, obviously no one wants to be able to come in and ask for assistance — because of just not being able to make ends meet," added Woodard. Some of the people in line said this is the first time they've applied for this kind of assistance during the holidays, but added they have no where else to turn. “There's four of us in my family. I have two young children. My husband works and does not make enough money to cover the out take, the bills. It’s hard to explain to a little kid that Mom and Dad are struggling with bills and food and can't buy anything for Christmas," said Lindy Snyder of Elkhart. Edward Hodges is unemployed and struggling to find a job. "I'm truly blessed with a place, there's a place like this that's open," he said. "You know I had to swallow my pride, but I want my kids to have a great Christmas." The Elkhart Salvation Army needs help keeping up with this year's demand for the Christmas Assistance Program. You can help by donating financially, volunteering or by adopting a family. For more information, call the Elkhart Salvation Army Corps at (574) 970-0088. Most PopularMore Good Stuff |
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