December 1, 2008

On Saturday, December 6, the Hope Community Center in Charlottesville aims to provide clothing and toys to many families in need. From 8 am until 1 pm free clothes and toys will be given to residents in need this holiday season.

“We started doing a clothing drive just for the homeless, and we bought jackets, but we realized there was a larger need than just for the homeless. We started collecting clothing and toys for just those who are in need during this Christmas time,” said Joshua Bare.

With the slumping economy affecting just about everyone, Bare says there's an easy way to help out; one that doesn't cost you anything.

“We've had people from all walks of life. From people who aren’t making a whole lot of money, to people who are very wealthy bringing us clothing and bringing us toys to be given away. There’s just an overall recognition of what's going on in our economy and in our city, so that people just want to reach out and help their neighbor,” said Bare.

Bare hopes the collection of gently worn clothes and used toys will benefit hundreds of families.

“Used clothing that's nice, clean and is something that you would give to a friend. Its just this is your friend across town,” said Bare.

According to Bare, for a child who doesn't have much; even a used toy, is new to them.

“The idea that a child who doesn't have a lot of anything, that someone looks out for them and gives them a new toy, it's a new toy them to them. It's just a new light, bright, excitement on their face,” said Bare.

The Hope Community Center's motto is ‘Giving Hope a Hand’, and Bare says, that can be achieved, as long as the community reaches out this season.

“Lots of people need a chance and they need that hope and so us distributing clothing is giving hope a chance, it's giving hope a hand. It's rebuilding confidence in their life,” said Bare.

Organizers are looking to collect warm clothing like sweaters, jackets, and pants for all ages from infant to adult.

The clothing and toys can be dropped off all this week at the Hope Community Center. The clothing and toys can be picked up by those in need, is this Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm at the center located at 341 11th Street NW in Charlottesville.

There will be food and entertainment throughout the morning on Saturday.