What Even Is ‘Adopt-A-Family’ ?

Adopt-A-Family collects toys for families that cannot afford to purchase them during the holiday season.

Adopt-A-Family collects toys for families that cannot afford to purchase them during the holiday season.

Every day we hear “Adopt-A-Family” on the morning announcements, but do most students know what it really is? Adopt-A-Family is a program that allows people in the community to “adopt” a family to purchase holiday gifts for. Although we live in a rather affluent area, there are still many families in need. During the holiday season some families have difficulties purchasing presents for each other because they do not have the extra money to spare. Adopt-A-Family is run through the Immaculate Conception Church in Westhampton Beach, and it is organized by Mrs. Kalisak.

In order to purchase these gifts, however, money needs to be raised by the groups sponsoring the families. Student Government and Rotary Interact are two clubs that are actively participating in assisting these families in their time of need. From these two clubs alone, three families are being helped out.

In order to raise the money, bake sales are being held every week by both Student Government and Rotary. In addition to that, the Turkey Bowl was also a fundraiser for the families. A Polar Bear Plunge will be held on December 14th to raise the remaining amount of funds for the presents. Admission is $20 and participants will receive two hours of community service for plunging. Seniors, this is a great way to help out the community and get your hours in before graduation!

You can get involved too if you’re not involved already. Student Government will be hosting their wrapping party on December 15th and all are welcome to come. Rotary will also be hosting a wrapping party for their family.

Adopt-A-Family is a great organization within our community. “I like to show students the importance of helping out the community. It’s a great way to instill morals and ethics into the students,” adds Mrs. Juma, co-advisor of Student Government.

Don’t be afraid to ask anyone you know that’s involved with the program to find other opportunities to help out various families within our community.