UMaine Volunteers Collecting Holiday Gifts for Crossroads

Contact: Lauren Wagner, 581-1796

ORONO — The UMaine Bodwell Center for Service & Volunteerism, Phi Gamma Delta and Crossroads Ministries have joined together again to collect holiday gifts for families in the greater Old Town-Orono-area facing hard times as the holidays approach.

The Holiday Sharing Program and “A FIJI Christmas” effort is unique, confidential and operates on the premise that parents know the needs of a child the best. Area families will choose gifts for their children in a confidential setting. The shopping experience will take place by appointment at Crossroads Ministries.

Last year, more than 340 children benefited from the generosity of the community and the university. Phi Gamma Delta hosted A FIJI Christmas, a gift-collection competition among UMaine fraternities and sororities, which collected more than 300 gifts for Crossroads.

Other UMaine student organizations, in addition to community organizations, contributed to the success. Kiwanis, Orono Health Association, Red Shield, Old Town Methodist Church and the Governor’s Restaurant also helped out. This year, Kiwanis already has made a $1,000 donation.

Members of the community in need of support for the holiday season can visit Crossroads Ministries at 2 Wood St. in Old Town, or call 827-1298 for more information.

Those wishing to donate are asked to please bring gifts valued at no more than $25 to the Bodwell Center in Hannibal Hamlin Hall at UMaine or to Crossroads Ministries by Dec. 10. Those who would like to support the Holiday Sharing Program through cash donations are invited to contact Lauren Wagner at the Bodwell Center for Service & Volunteerism at 581-1796 or email: lauren.wagner@umit.maine.edu.