Creating a happier holiday season

Thanks to generous sponsors, Keystone's Gifts of Hope program helped 28 families — a total of 131 individuals — have a happier holiday in 2009. Sponsors included corporate and employee groups, families and individuals, who purchased specific household items needed by the family as well as toys for the children. In addition, another 12 donors contributed gifts and 10 donors, including a Sunday school class, contributed money. Recipients  are selected each year by Keystone case managers and social workers, who identify families in special need of assistance. Here are a few examples of situations of recipient families this year:

• Both parents are deaf and unemployed, and the family has been getting by on a very limited income.

• A single mom lost her job and housing following a car accident; she has found employment, but the hours are very limited and do not cover expenses for her and her daughter. They are living in a hotel until she can find permanent housing.

• Due to diabetes, a father has lost his vision and is on kidney dialysis. His wife is the primary caregiver for him and their seven-year-old son.

"You cannot overestimate what Gifts of Hope assistance means to these families," said Eric Nyberg, Keystone president. "We thank every donor and donor group for helping to relieve the additional stress that comes with the holiday season for these families struggling to maintain self-sufficiency and hope."