United Christmas Service has $183,000 gap to close

INDIANAPOLIS (Press Release) - As part of your Christmas giving, if you'd still like to help neighbors who've fallen on tough times there's a week left to contribute financially to United Christmas Service (UCS).

More than $183,000 is still needed to help local families in need before Christmas, according to Ron Pearson, volunteer chair of the program operated for the community by United Way of Central Indiana.

United Christmas Service encourages organizations and individuals throughout central Indiana to share their blessings during the holidays. Families who are not matched with a group for Christmas a celebration may receive a $30 per person per family restricted check to be used for food, clothing and/or small toys, if enough contributions are raised.

So far, the community has contributed $617,000 toward United Christmas Service's $800,000 goal. Visit www.uwci.org/ucs to give online. Or, drop a monetary gift off for Christmas Service at United Way's headquarters, 3901 N. Meridian Street. Call 317.921.1372 for more information. People who need help should call 2-1-1 to speak with a Connect2Help information specialist.

More than 1,200 of the neediest families were also matched this year with companies, families, churches and other groups who provide food and gifts to families who would otherwise do without Christmas celebrations.

Another way to support the program is by purchasing WTHR's Sunrise Cookbook ($9.99) at any area Marsh store. Proceeds will benefit families referred to Christmas Service by local agencies.

Each year since 1952, United Way of Central Indiana’s United Christmas Service (UCS) has helped neighbors in need during the holiday season. Last year, more than 28,000 people benefitted through both the adopt-a-family program and the vouchers.