CHGM Makes Season Brighter for Families in Need During Holidays

Capitol Hill Group Ministry (CHGM) distributed Christmas gifts for hundreds of local children and families from the Capitol Hill United Methodist Church sanctuary.

“Our Adopt-a-Family Christmas project provides an opportunity for hundreds of local donors to give of their time and money to make Christmas special for our neighbors in need,” said Barfonce Baldwin, Executive Director of CHGM. “Not only will children receive toys and books to brighten their holidays, but households will be provided with basic necessities including clothes, sheets, blankets, and kitchen goods, thanks to the contributions of generous supporters of CHGM.”

CHGM’s annual Adopt-A-Family project is a unique way to harness the spirit of giving in our community to meet the needs of many neighbors at this special time of year. On December 22nd, 3,480 gifts were provided to more than 696 individuals. Participating families are vetted by CHGM staff, then their requests are provided to contributors who purchase, wrap and return goods for distribution. Gifts often include basic necessities families would otherwise go without, including baby blankets, sheets, towels, clothing, and kitchen essentials.

This gift drive, as well as an annual Thanksgiving food drive and back-to-school backpack drive, are special projects for CHGM, which provides traditional social services to thousands of DC residents in need of housing each year through a holistic approach aimed at enabling consumers to become self sufficient. Residents are referred to CHGM through DC Social Services and through CHGM’s street outreach program which distributes information about services directly to homeless individuals on the streets of DC with the help of volunteers.

“It is truly a Christmas miracle for so many DC residents to help make the lives of their neighbors in need a little easier,” Baldwin concluded. “Thank you to the hundreds of supporters who make this annual gift drive a success. These generous gifts give families throughout our area hope and joy at this special time.”