Providing Thanksgiving meals is just one way Kids Unlimited inspires Hope for the Holidays.

Fifty families whose children attend Kids Unlimited Academy took home grocery bags containing all the ingredients for a spread of Thanksgiving side dishes. These included rolls, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy mix, cranberry sauce, green beans, canned sweet potatoes with marshmallows and pumpkin pie.

Accompanying the foodstuffs were $20 gift cards to Sherm’s Thunderbird and Food 4 Less that recipients could use toward purchasing a protein item. Sherm’s Markets donated several additional groceries and reusable fabric bags.

The project is the first in KU’s annual Hope for the Holidays giving campaign, which supports our most vulnerable children and families with food, clothing, gifts — and their community’s kindness. One-hundred percent of donations KU receives directly benefit those in need. KU serves more than 1,000 high-poverty households in Southern Oregon.

“Our goal is to make every child feel special,” said Tom Cole, KU founder and CEO. “Memories of the holidays are so important to a child.”

Here’s how the community can give Hope for the Holidays:

  • Meals delivered to KU families for whom adequate nourishment is a challenge;
  • Grocery bags of food to fill empty refrigerators and pantries;
  • Gift cards for household items (toilet paper, soap, laundry), groceries and gas;
  • New, warm blankets and bedding to cuddle children to sleep;
  • New, warm clothes for children and youth of all sizes;
  • New coats, hats, undergarments and socks for children and youth of all sizes;
  • New toys, books, puzzles and games to brighten our children’s holidays.

“Regardless of circumstances, we can make sure our neediest children and families are not forgotten,” said Cole.

Go to KU’s fundraising page to pledge your support. Make yours a monthly, recurring donation and keep the holiday spirit alive all year!