Christmas assistance signup

It seems a little early to be thinking about Christmas but the volunteers with the Washington County Christmas Assistance Program have been working hard to make sure that no child in Washington County goes without this Christmas.

The income-based program serves Washington County children age 16 and younger. The total household income must fall within the established guidelines. The amounts are based on gross income before taxes and is broken down by weeks, month and year.

It all starts with the application process, which is scheduled this year for Friday, Oct. 25 from 12 - 7 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Southern Hills Church, 1645 S. State Road 135, Salem.

To apply, applicants need to bring with them:

• Photo ID for applicant and every person living in the household, 18 years or older.

• Birth certificates for newborns and children up to age 16.

• If you are not the parent, legal documents proving custody.

• Proof of address in the form of current utility bill or rent statement in the name of the head of household.

• Award letter from food stamps. SSI, Medicaid, TANF, social security, unemployment, or disability. (Forms are required from everyone in the household who receives benefits.)

• If applicant is employed, two of the most recent pay stubs.

• Correct sizes for each of the children, newborn to age 16.

Please note that the application process can not start without these documents.

Notices will be sent home with students in Washington County schools the week following fall break.

The CAP program works closly with the Salvation Army in New Albany by sending them names for their Angel Tree program. They are careful to cross-reference names so that every child receives just one package. The Salvation Army provides a lot of the toys and Christmas packages which CAP adds to before being handed out on Dec. 7 from one central location in the county, Southern Hills Church.

The Christmas assistance program is always open to accepting more volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, contact the church office at 812-883-1637, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., or by email at office@shillschurch.com.

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