MCC aims to help families in need

Hope’s Memorial Community Center is raising funds for its annual Christmas Giving program.

The community's generosity allows the center to make Christmas merry for families in need during the holiday season, MCC officials said. The goal is to raise $5,000 by Nov. 30.

The Christmas Giving program helps families who live between the Pack River at Highway 200 and the Montana-Idaho border.

To allow time for purchasing, delivery and wrapping of gifts, MCC officials asked those considering a donation to do so as soon as possible. A portion of each donation will go to the Clark Fork Food Bank to purchase holiday meals for families accepted into the program.

For families accepted into the program, toys and clothing will be provided for children 12 and under, and gift cards for children 13 to 18, according to the press release.

Children will also receive a small gift to put under the tree for their parents, and handmade socks and gloves made by a community knitters group will be distributed.

To participate, families must be accepted into the program in advance, Brinker said. Applications are open until Nov. 17. MCC is also looking for volunteers to help wrap presents, she said. and those who would like to make a nomination for the program or volunteer can call (208) 264-5481.

For those who would like to donate, they can drop off monetary donations at 415 Wellington Place, Hope Tuesday through Thursday 10 a.m. to noon, donate online at memorialcommunitycenter.com or mail checks to MCC P.O. Box 405 Hope, ID 8836.