We are just one week away from Christmas Eve 2020.
For some, the holiday season is not what they had hoped for during the pandemic.
People are finding their families in need of clothing, food, and even toys for children.
But many programs had sign-ups months ago and are taking on no new families. Franklin County 211 and Luthern Social Services are a referral hotline connecting those in need with services.
211 Executive Director Courtney Walker said the need is greater now during the pandemic. “Folks are reaching out that have never utilized 211 service before,” said Walker.
Walker said there is a toy deficit in the Columbus area for needy kids.
“This year has been different. Some of the normal drives that take place have not taken place this year. So that has caused a shortage of gifts and toys that would normally be available,” Walker said.
LSS is still working to connect people with resources despite the fact is seems like Santa is already down the chimney this holiday.
“The service is free. It doesn’t matter what your social economic status is. If you need something we are here to help and provide a resource for you,” Walker said.
If you want to give a present, you can donate a gift card through Franklin County Children Services for the kids in their care.
Volunteers of America is also still accepting virtual gift card donations.
“Keep the thought in your heart and mind about giving and reaching out. Even though this year is different the holidays are still coming. They are going to come regardless,” Walker said.
The following are resources provided by 211:
Winter Wonderland Whimsy Drive-Thru Event at the Hilltop YMCA (located at 2879 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, Ohio 43204). Join the Hilltop YMCA for a safe and fun drive-thru style holiday event. There will be gifts, games, and goodies the whole family can enjoy on Friday, December 18th, 2020 between 3-5 p.m. This is while supplies last. Call or email to reserve your spot (or to drop off donations): Latoya Mosley at lmosley@ymcacolumbus.org, or call 614-389-4565
The Jerry L. Garver YMCA, 2020 Holiday Toy Drive with Toys for Tots will be held on Saturday, December 19th, 2020 between 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Location: 6767 Refugee Road, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110. Toys are FREE with a valid ID. Applicants can drive through and register. All families are welcome. Registration requires name, the birthdate of each child in the household. For questions, please call 614-834-9622
Dodge Rec Center will provide Holiday Meal and Toy Giveaway, located at 667 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Meal giveaway is on Thursday, December 17th, between 12-2:30 p.m., or until out of food. First come, first serve. Toy giveaway is on Friday, December 18th, 2020.
On December 18th, 2020 Brightside Academy Ohio (located at 3611 Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43227) will have a Holiday Foodbox Giveaway Drive-Thru distribution between 4 pm-6 pm. Free food boxes will be distributed on a first come, first-served basis. Limited to (1) food box per family while supplies last). Additional community and family resources will be distributed (i.e. masks, goodie bags, and more). If you have questions, please email Courtney Harris at charris@brightsideohio.com
Clintonville-Beechwold Community Resources Center, 14 W. Lakeview AveColumbus, OH 43202Franklin County, (614) 268-8118 Administrative familyservices@clintonvillecrc.org
FIREFIGHTERS 4KIDS
Service Description Provides holiday toys for children under 18 years of age. Families must register to receive toys. At the time of registration, clients will receive a date/time pick-up appointment.
Eligibility All Franklin County families with children under 18 years old are eligible, who live in the zip codes 43202, 43210, 43214, 43220, 43221, 43235
Hours are Monday - Friday 12:00 p.m. -4p.m.
Intake Process Accepting holiday toy signup in the year 2020 for children under 18 years of age. Parents can sign up for their child/ren by calling 614-268-8118. No deadline to apply, distribution date will be provided at the time of registration.
Westerville Caring and Sharing
PO Box 970 Westerville, OH 43086Franklin County
Mail: P.O. Box 970Westerville, OH 43086
(614) 470-4320 Administrative
WestervilleCaringSharing@gmail.com
Westerville Caring and Sharing Holiday Project - Christmas
(614) 470-4320 Administrative
WestervilleCaringSharing@gmail.com
Service Description This organization assists students and their families with gifts, food baskets, personal hygiene, and household products through a sponsorship, consisting of individuals and/or businesses/organizations. In 2020, the organization will only provide gift cards for Christmas to children due to the pandemic.
Eligibility Must live in Westerville School District and qualify for free and reduced lunch.
Hours Contact (614) 470-4320 to obtain dates for application distribution.
Intake Process Call 614-470-4320 to get more information. 2020 Christmas Gift cards will only be provided to children who are eligible.