In a program called Adopt a Family organized by the Town, churches and other organizations have been asked to purchase $20 gift cards for the refugee adults and teenagers. (St. Vincent de Paul is providing toys for all the children.) Town Manager Jay McGrail asked FUUSM to adopt eight families totaling 21 adults and teens.
The Social Justice Team and Rev. Peter have agreed to this request, which is expected to be fulfilled through the Minister’s Discretionary Fund.
Ocean State carries shoes as well as outerwear. Winter-worthy shoes are reportedly the most sought-after need. McGrail plans to distribute the cards to the families on December 21 at the hotel, and invites any of us who would like to join him to do so.
FUUSM folks have pointed out that $20 won’t go very far toward winter gear. McGrail implied that families may have some other resources supplementing the gift cards. But for anyone wanting to donate lightly used (or new) winter shoes and coats for the Middleboro families, Walt’s Mobile Closet is the designated organization: (508) 322-8563, waltsmobilecloset@gmail.com. Walt’s is based in Mattapoisett and is on Facebook.
