The Stand
Holiday Angel Emergency Appeal
ACR’s long-standing Holiday Angel Program spreads comfort and joy to individuals and families who otherwise would do without at holiday time. The program pairs members of the community (Angels) with a designated ACR client and their family. The “Angels” are supplied with a client’s first name, and a list of “needs” rather than the typical Christmas “wish” list. Because of a growth in our agency, ACR Health has been overwhelmed with requests for assistance.
ACR Development Director Carrie Portzline-Large said, “Our clients and their families struggle financially year-round. They often have nothing left for ‘something special’ at holiday time.”
Clients’ lists of “needs” usually contain requests for basic needs like clothing, bathroom items such as towels, kitchen supplies, or personal items like shoes or a coat. Participating Angels can buy as many or as few of the items on the list as they wish.
Many community groups, churches or extended families pool their resources every year to sponsor an ACR client and members of their family. Several hundred people rely on ACR Holiday Angels for whatever holiday gifts come their way.
ACR serves Cayuga, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego and St. Lawrence counties. Holiday Angels are needed across our nine-county service area.
All gifts should be wrapped and labeled. Financial donations are also greatly appreciated.
If you would like to be a Holiday Angel, please call 800.475.2430 or email events@ACRHealth.org.
