The Christmas Store: Share the Joy of Christmas!

LOCALLY SOURCED

Discover practical ways you can help at Outreach Community Center’s Christmas Store.

First, what is the Christmas store and who shops there?

• The Christmas Store is a special one-day event where qualified families can affordably shop for Christmas gifts for their children.

• Clients of Outreach Community Center, as well as residents who live near the center in Carol Stream, may shop the store, with priority given to the clients.

• One hundred percent of the proceeds from the store support Outreach Community Center’s case management services, helping local families in crisis throughout the year.

• Much of the success of the store depends on gift drives to help fill its shopping tables.

• This year the Christmas Store is December 12 and will have COVID safety measures and modifications in place.

• Outreach Community Center appreciates and needs the help from churches like ours to host gift drives and spread the word.

• Gifts should range from $15-$40 in value.

• Books, stuffed animals and board games are not typically chosen by shoppers.

• Toys featured at Costco, Sam’s Club and Aldi are always good options.

• Visit Amazon.com or Target.com and search for “Outreach Community Center” for gifts and more ideas.

• Some popular stores for gift cards are Walmart, Target, Starbucks, Kohls and Amazon. You may drop off your donations at

• the College Church curbside gift drive on Sunday, November 22, during all three services.

• drive by gift drops at OCC on December 4 and College Church on December 5. You’ll get in the spirit of the season as you enjoy Christmas lights and music. You may also decorate your vehicle for the gift parade at OCC.

• the Toy Drive box inside the Sanctuary on Sundays or outside the Church Office in the Commons during the week.

• If you have gift cards, we suggest giving them to the church receptionist in the office.

Local partner Outreach Community Center has many ways to volunteer throughout the year. Explore its website for volunteer opportunities, or contact Mindy Inman, director of volunteer services, at minman@outreachcommin.org Any questions about the College Church donation drop off, please email Liz Reid at lizannereid@gmail.com

Connections gives thanks for Liz Reid

Member of the Culture Impact Committee, mom and volunteer.