It might still be September but the Catawba County Christmas Bureau “Elves” are already hard at work preparing for this year’s annual event, Dec. 13-14.
The Christmas Bureau is a collaborative effort among many Catawba County agencies and organizations to provide toys, food, clothing and coats to children and teenagers in need of assistance during the Christmas season.
In 2020, that meant helping 667 families representing 1,458 children ages 0-12 and 398 teens ages 13-18.
The event will again be held at the Hickory Metro Convention Center on Dec. 13 and 14 as a drive thru for families.
Last year, Richard Barber said that was the first time his family, which includes seven children, reached out for help from the Christmas Bureau.
“2020 hasn’t been the best year for everybody, so with all of the difficulties the year has brought, along with other financial problems that come with businesses closing down or limited work, it just made things more difficult this year,” Barber said. “We’re trying our best to keep our heads above water, and this provides another float for us to utilize.”
To reserve an appointment to complete an application for your family at the Catawba County Christmas Bureau visit - www.ecccm.org/cccb – please share the link with anyone who you think may need it.
Applications will be taken by appointment only the first three weeks of October, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday – Thursday.
If you cannot access the online site, call 828-465-1702 (ECCCM) or 828-322-2535 (Salvation Army).
What’s Required to Register
- Photo ID or passport for each applying adult.
- Birth certificate or Medicaid card for all children in the household.
- Custody papers as applicable.
- Current food stamp award letter or proof of all monthly income and expenses.
- Proof of Catawba County residency.
- Complete information for all children in household 18 and under and still in school.
To learn more about being a volunteer for the event (we can always use the extra help) call 828-327-6851 or email John Bailey at the Catawba County United Way – jbailey@ccunitedway.com.