CHRISTMAS GIVING

During the Thanksgiving feast many families go around the table saying what they are thankful for or how they had been blessed during the past year.  Some recall specific blessings, others mention health, jobs, family.  There are random acts of kindness that others remember.

Now it is time for us to continue the giving cycle and give to others.  We can do this by being generous with our time, talents, and money.  In the Twin Boros there are many whom we may consider:

The Len Anderson Christmas Fund is activated only during the month of December.  There are two ways you can contribute to this fund.  One is by calling Oakmont Chamber of Commerce office at 412-828-3238 between 10 am and 3 pm Monday, December 3 through Thursday, December 6 and recommend residents in the Riverview School District who could use a little extra help.  Have their name and address ready.  The second way is to donate to the fund.  This will provide Giant Eagle gift certificates to local families who have been mentioned.  Send your donation to: The Len Anderson Christmas Fund, Box 355, Oakmont, PA 15139.  Russ and Jan Truby and their helpers have managed the Len Anderson Christmas Fund for the last several years.  Think Generous!

Riverview Community Action Center (RCAC) provides services for Senior Citizens and also offers services and activities to other groups in the Twin Boros.  RCAC needs volunteer drivers and delivery folks to help with Meals-on-Wheels, the communal dining program, bingo, and their other programs.  Ask what you can do (412-828-1062) and they will provide you with many options.  Tax deductible donations during the holiday will help carry out the many programs held in their headquarters at 501 Second Street, Oakmont, 15147.

Twin Boros Health Ministry arranges for blood donations to be given on a regular basis, which has far reaching benefits.  They also contribute and are a viable help with the Summer Lunch and Fun program held each summer in the Verona Presbyterian Church and Cribbs Field.  They host the Monthly Dinners for the 50+ group the last Wednesday of every month from 4:30 to 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall of Verona United Methodist Church located on the corner of Herron and Center avenues.  Send donations c/o Verona United Methodist Church, 798 Herron Avenue, Verona 15147.

The Salvation Army is always ready to help anyone in the Twin Boros during an emergency.  Money donated in the Twin Boros kettles will remain in Verona and Oakmont.  If you write a check, please designate that your donation remain in the Verona/Oakmont area.  Donations are taken at PNC Bank and on the weekend you will find several “notables” manning the kettles at Verona Giant Eagle.

Presbyterian SeniorCare on Hulton Road serves many of our area senior citizens in its multilevel care facilities.  Contact the volunteer office at 412-826-6099.  Being willing to visit, help with crafts, be a resident escort, read to residents, and helping in the Strawberry Patch are just some of the ways to volunteer.

Riverview Children’s Center provides daycare for area youngsters.  The Children’s Center has been recognized nationally for the quality of care provided.  Donations may be sent to: Riverview Children’s Center, 655 Sylvan Way, Verona, 15147.

Beverly House on Ann Street is a care facility that can also use volunteers to talk with and escort residents from place to place.  Amenities such as powder, large print books, or helium filled balloons to brighten their day are welcome gifts.

The Community Food Pantry housed in Verona United Methodist Church.  They are always in need of extra money and non-perishables.  Food has risen considerably in price lately so there are probably more folks that will need this service.

The Children’s Advocates support, through volunteer efforts and financial aid, selected activities and the needs of children in our community, including the Summer Lunch and Fun Program and other summer camp opportunities.  Donations may be sent to Children’s Advocates, Verona United Methodist Church, 798 Herron Avenue, Verona, 15147.

Please note, this list may be kept handy as it could become a year round source of ideas where to give your money and time. 

I’m sure I have missed someone or an organization that is in need of your donations or talents.   Please feel free to add them in the comments below….and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.