Every season has a need! Christmas offers special opportunities to touch the lives of people in need. Sponsor a "Gifts from the Heart" tree at your business. Each heart represents a resident and their gift wish. Other hearts are for the many children of our residents, as well as the low-income families in need of assistance. Wish lists for men, women and children that include specific items like clothing and toys are also available.

At our Sunday Santa Shop, parents are invited to "shop" for gifts - of course at no charge. Parents are assisted by volunteer elves as they select from new toys and clothing. Everything is donated by caring people. Last, but not least, we have volunteer elves waiting to wrap the gifts from the happy shoppers. With the help of St. Vincent de Paul's Santa Shop, parents are able to be Santa to their children instead of a social service agency. It is a magical time that will touch your heart.

"Spruce up for Spring" is an opportunity to donate flowers, planters, and a chance to help improve our inner-city campus grounds. Preparing laundry baskets filled with household cleaning supplies for residents in our apartments is another way to help us spruce up for spring.

Host a cookout for one of our six shelters during the summer. This is a fun event that can involve the children and parents. Games and activities will promote good will.

Bake homemade deserts for our special Thanksgiving meal in the Open Hand Kitchen. Our chef enjoys making holidays a special time for our guests. Our kitchen feeds people from the community in addition to the folks in our shelters. Your special holiday desert will certainly be enjoyed by the poor and needy who come to our door for a free meal.

Contact Eleise Passafiume, (502) 584-2480, ext. 233, if you would like more information about these volunteer opportunities.