The holiday season is supposed to be a magical time for children and their families – a time filled with hope, joy, and happiness and the twinkling eyes of children as they look forward to holiday celebrations.
At least this is how we all envision this time of year. In actuality, many families are struggling, and in turn, children are left to wonder and question what this holiday will bring. This is where community members and many service organizations will make a difference – to assist families in need as they try to support their own families, not only during the holidays but every day of the year.
This year, the Sheridan community, service organizations, churches, businesses and individuals generously supported families during the holiday season through the Holiday Assistance Programs organized by Sheridan United Methodist Church, MAMA’s Cupboard, and the Sheridan Youth Assistance Program. Together, these partners served 130 households and 416 individuals from the Sheridan community.
Simone and Quintin Baker are two local children who are enjoying the gifts of local Kiwanis. (Photo provided)
The Carmel Kiwanis Club made a generous financial donation to Sheridan Youth Assistance Program to be directed toward this holiday effort. In addition to financial support, the Carmel Kiwanis Club, with members from all across Hamilton County, donated 150 handcrafted wooden toys. These donated wooden toys were presented to each child who visited Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Sheridan Public Library’s drive-thru holiday event held on Dec. 5. In fact, over 3,400 wooden toys were created in the organization’s Northern Hamilton County wood shop in 2020.
Kiwanis’ mission statement was demonstrated, evident, and practiced by its members through their gifts and service in the Sheridan community this holiday season. With gratitude and appreciation, Sheridan Youth Assistance Program recognizes the support of the Carmel Kiwanis Club toward holiday assistance and a childhood memory made in the Sheridan community.
Kiwanis Global Mission Statement: “Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
About Sheridan Youth Assistance
Sheridan Youth Assistance serves as an early intervention advocate for youth ages 3 to 17 who are facing challenging life circumstances. The program takes a holistic approach to coordinate the community’s vast array of talents, services and resources to help youth and empower parents and caregivers.