Donations sought for annual Unity House, CEO holiday program

TROY, N.Y. » As Unity House kicks off its annual Children’s Holiday Program, it is seeking businesses and individuals to shop for a family or child to purchase toys and clothing.

In this, the 16th year of the program, which provides holiday gifts for families receiving services through the organization’s domestic violence or A Child’s Place day care programs, Unity House officials expect to provide gifts to more than 1,000 families.

“Holidays are often difficult for families who are barely making ends meet on a regular basis,” said Chris Burke, Unity House CEO. “Our gift program brings a lot of joy to these children and alleviates anxiety for parents by ensuring their children have gifts for the holiday.”

Unity House partners with the Commission on Economic Opportunity to create a retail experience for families served by the two organizations’ poverty services programs. By creating a holiday “store” where toys are organized by age level, the organizations allow families to shop — at no cost — and choose gifts they would like to give their children.

“We want to provide the recipients with a sense of dignity as they are able to select gifts for their children themselves,” said Burke.

The groups are seeking donations of new, unwrapped toys, which can be dropped off at either Unity House’s Front Door, 2431 6th Ave., or CEO’s offices at 2331 5th Ave. In addition to toys and clothing, donations of gift cards for food or general household goods stores are encouraged.

Individuals and organizations interested in shopping for a child or a family, donating cash or a gift card or organizing a toy drive this holiday season, can contact Mandy Brown at 518-2742607, ext. 4139 for more information.