In addition to coordinating the relief efforts of charities, civic organizations and volunteer groups for the thousands of local residents still reeling from the effects of superstorm Sandy, the Bergen County Volunteer Center is also kicking off its annual holiday program--'All Wrapped Up.'

Now in its 15th year, 'All Wrapped Up' is a giving program that fulfills the holiday wishes of low-income families and people who face the daily hardships of poverty, abuse, neglect and homelessness. Currently, there are 3600 names on this season's list.   

“We are asking groups of all kinds to step up and help those in need," said Janet Sherman, Executive Director of the Bergen County Volunteer Center. "We’ve already received a record number of requests from social service agencies for their clients."

Sherman said that groups can collect gifts or raise funds to help others find some joy in the holiday season.

The Volunteer Center is reaching out to companies, religious and civic groups, chambers of commerce and other community organizations, as well as individuals and families, to assist in providing gifts and gift cards to needy children and families, troubled youth, lonely seniors and disabled adults. Sherman stressed that unless generous donors come forward to offer assistance, people may be passed over this holiday season.

'All Wrapped Up' has two components: Adopt-a-Family and Heart to Heart.

The Volunteer Center has already received gift requests for more than 800 families, ranging in size from two to seven people, for their Adopt-a-Family program. The Center expects that number to grow. Donors will be given a family profile, with specific gift requests that could include clothes, toys or household items. Donors should plan to spend about $50 per family member. Donors may also provide gift certificates to stores or supermarkets.

Donors with limited budgets, or those who would like to focus on one needy person, may help an individual through the Heart-to-Heart program. The Volunteer Center has already received over 1,000 requests for assistance for seniors, lonely or disabled adults and children. Donors are asked to provide supermarket gift certificates, clothing and gifts for the individual they select and should plan to spend approximately $50.

Click here for more information about becoming a donor. Registration is open now. Donor-client matching has already begun.

For more information, call Debbie Emery at (201) 489-9454 Ext. 118.

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