Christmas Basket Program
Family selection for St. James’ 62nd Annual Christmas Basket Program will begin the weekend of November 7–8 and continue throughout November. Because of the success of the program with our parish last year, Catholic Charites requested that this year we again accept 100 children and families from its Head Start Program.
The Catholic Charities Head Start program provides services for low-income families in need, including family engagement, health services, and nutritious meals, as well as expectant mother services and doula support services. Children are provided assistance in developing social, emotional, and school readiness skills to allow them to be successful in school and beyond. Parents are also provided with assistance in obtaining needed resources when they are unable to navigate other community resources, or when those resources are no longer able to provide parents and families with the help needed.
Sponsors are invited to purchase gifts for their selected child and will be provided with a “wish list” of clothing and toys suggested for the particular child. as compiled by the child’s family and Catholic Charities case worker.
We will also be collecting donations of gift cards to provide to the families of the children sponsored to purchase food and other necessities. Crusader Cash will be available for purchase each weekend in November (see below). You may either purchase gift cards for donation or donate cash that will be used to purchase gift cards for the Christmas Basket Program.
In addition to the children from the Head Start program, we will also be sponsoring clients of the parish St. Vincent de Paul Society and several local military veterans in need.
Questions? Mike Progar, 630-740-3025 or mprogar@alumni.nd.edu.
Crusader Cash
When you purchase Crusader Cash gift cards for the Christmas Basket Program, you are not only benefitting a family in need—you are also supporting Catholic education!
Most-requested gift cards by Catholic Charities for the Head Start program are Walmart, Target, Jewel, and BP. Perfect for household groceries, charitable giving, or gifts for friends and family, you receive a card for the exact amount you pay, and the school benefits!
Gift cards are available for purchase before and after Mass. Many cards are on hand; special orders arrive in as little as one week.
Cash/check preferred; credit cards accepted. Want to set it up digital cards on your phone? Email stacysajder30@gmail.com