Christmas Bureau Opens on October 3

September 30, 2011, Monroe, NC - The Union County Christmas Bureau will open Monday, Oct. 3 to begin accepting applications from families that request assistance for the Christmas season. This year the Christmas Bureau is once again located at 2107 W. Roosevelt Boulevard in the old Big Lots building next to the Monroe Crossing Shopping Center. "Monroe Crossing has graciously provided the former Big Lots location for us to use again this year," said Gloria Haney, Volunteer Services Coordinator for the Union County Department of Social Services and director of the Christmas Bureau. "We are so grateful to Monroe Crossing for their generosity." During the 2010 Christmas season, 2,141 families and 8,001 individuals received some type of assistance from the Christmas Bureau or outside sponsors. More families than ever before are expected to seek assistance this year. In order to meet the needs of all the families requesting assistance, the Christmas Bureau is asking businesses, churches, families, groups and individuals to donate toys, nonperishable food and money.

- The Union County Christmas Bureau will open Monday, Oct. 3 to begin accepting applications from families that request assistance for the Christmas season. This year the Christmas Bureau is once again located at 2107 W. Roosevelt Boulevard in the old Big Lots building next to the Monroe Crossing Shopping Center. "Monroe Crossing has graciously provided the former Big Lots location for us to use again this year," said Gloria Haney, Volunteer Services Coordinator for the Union County Department of Social Services and director of the Christmas Bureau. "We are so grateful to Monroe Crossing for their generosity." During the 2010 Christmas season, 2,141 families and 8,001 individuals received some type of assistance from the Christmas Bureau or outside sponsors. More families than ever before are expected to seek assistance this year. In order to meet the needs of all the families requesting assistance, the Christmas Bureau is asking businesses, churches, families, groups and individuals to donate toys, nonperishable food and money.

"The Christmas Bureau depends on support and donations from the community." Haney said. "This is a great way for those in our community to reach out to local neighbors in need. We are also looking for groups to volunteer with our new gift matching program for children beginning in October. Group leaders can call for more details in how they can help fill a child’s wish list without any cost to their group." The Christmas Bureau requests that donations be made before Friday, Dec. 9. Groups or individuals may also assist by sponsoring families, gift trees or filling stockings for children. Beginning Oct.3, monetary donations may be made in person or mailed to the Christmas Bureau at 2107 W. Roosevelt Boulevard, Monroe, NC 28110. All donations are tax deductible.

Volunteers are also needed for various tasks during October through December. If you are able to help, you may reach the Union County Christmas Bureau at 704-291-9041 or by signing up at www.signupgenius.com/go/christmas195.