Annual Christmas-in-July fundraiser to benefit underprivileged children

WATERVILLE — The Kennebec Valley Chapter of Credit Unions will hold its annual “Christmas in July” fundraiser this month, in which participating credit unions collect clothing, shoes, toys, art supplies and more to benefit underprivileged children through the Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, 93 Silver St. (To view the participating credit unions and a list of items they are collecting, visit bit.ly/supportchristmasinjuly.)

Members from participating credit unions are asked to donate newly-purchased gifts as well as cash donations for the MCHLW’s Christmas Packing Program, which requires donations year-round, as it provides boxes of gifts and clothing to more than 1,700 financially-disadvantaged children throughout the state. Ideally, packing needs to be completed by the first week of December, so the Maine Children’s Home relies on continuous donations in the slower summer months to ensure every child receives gifts on time.

In order to qualify, families must meet state income guidelines, agree not to accept Christmas assistance from any other organization unless it is for food, apply for children who are 12 years old and younger, and be willing to provide proof of income. They usually begin accepting applications on their website in October.

For more information about the program and how to get involved, visit www.mainechildrenshome.org/christmas-program.php.