MCF Elves Organize Christmas for Almost 400 Kids

Hundreds of brightly wrapped packages packed the Golf Clubhouse from floor to ceiling in preparation for distribution to almost 400 Macomb County children today.

The 's annual Christmas for Kids program, now in its 32nd year, will ensure 375 local children have presents under their trees for Christmas.

"The Macomb Charitable Foundation began as Christmas for Kids," said Shelly Penzien, foundation president. "Then, after we did it for a couple years, we saw that the need is not just the holiday time, but year round, and so we evolved into a full-time volunteer mission to help homeless (and disadvantaged children)."

The Christmas for Kids program relies on individuals, schools, churches and businesses in the community to sponsor local children who are homeless or living below the poverty level.

A wish list from the child is provided and the sponsor is free to purchase as much as they want from the list.

"It's a wonderful way to let those in the community who are hurting right now know that others people in the community want to help them out and are supportive," Penzien said.

This year, each of 's 27 classrooms chose to sponsor a child in the program.

"St. Peter has been involved with this program for over 15 years," principal Kyle B. Chuhran said. "This is a great opportunity for our children and families to give to others in need. (Students) need to see beyond themselves, their family and their school."

From preschool through eighth grade, the students collected hundreds of toys as well as clothing and money.

"Serving others is an important part of our calling as Christians," Chuhran said. "Through this effort, we can show Christ's love to others by giving and expecting nothing in return."  

Donors remain anonymous to the sponsored children and their families, but do receive a receipt for a tax deduction.

"There are so many children that are in need, and I don't think the community is really even aware of how great the need is," said Julie Standlick, a foundation volunteer. "Part of our mission is to raise community awareness and to help the children."

The foundation estimates there are roughly 600 homeless school-age children in Macomb County and several hundred more from birth to 5 years. 

"There are many more children out there that we are not able to help," Penzien said. "The need has increased for sure, especially since our main focus is now on homeless children in the community and that number continues to rise."

Although the sponsorships for this year's program filled up by Thanksgiving, Penzien said the foundation still needs gift cards for food, gas and clothing, as the foundation often receives calls of need the week before Christmas.

Items collected through the Macomb Township Parks and Recreation, Water & Sewer and Fire department toy drive will also be used to serve last-minute calls.

All items collected for Christmas for Kids will be distributed from the Cracklewood Golf Clubhouse today.