Greenfield Police Department took part in the annual looks Shop with a Cop event at the Walmart in Greenfield. Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022. (Tom Russo | Daily Reporter)
GREENFIELD – Local agencies are announcing ways that families in need can get assistance this holiday season with gifts, clothes and food.
Here’s a look at a few ways to apply:
-Applications for the annual Cops-4-Kids shopping trip for Christmas gifts for children in need are available now. Applications can be picked up at the Greenfield Police Department weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. for lunch) at 116 S. State St., Greenfield. The application can be downloaded at greenfieldin.org. Restrictions apply; call Dana Nance for questions at 317-477-4410.
-Shop With a Deputy’s winter assistance program also has applications available. The 21st annual event allows deputies to shop with community children in need of winter clothing and other items. Applications can be picked up at the administration office, 398 Malcolm Grass Way, Greenfield or call 317-477-1147.
-The Fortville Police Department is accepting applications for 2023 Shop with Public Safety. Applications are accepted through 4 p.m. Dec. 1; the event will be Dec. 9. Visit Fortville Town Hall for an application, or find the link at facebook.com/TownofFortville. Call 317-485-4044 for questions.
-Blue Angel Connect gives gifts to families in both Hancock and Henry counties through its Holiday Hope Christmas Program. For more information and to apply, visit blueangelconnect.org.
-Greenfield-Central, Mt. Vernon and Eastern Hancock families in need of assistance are encouraged to apply with the social worker or counselor of their youngest child’s school. The social worker then matches them up with a local church, public safety agency or community group to help.
-The Lisa Muegge Feast of Plenty is coming up this month, with several opportunities to get a free meal, groceries or to volunteer. The Thanksgiving Day celebration Nov. 23 provides meal delivery and carry-out for the community, as well as bags of groceries. To request a meal or groceries, visit feastofplentyoutreach.com; the website also provides ways to volunteer, donate or sponsor the event.
-Volunteers are needed to ring bells for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.
All funds raised during the campaign stay in Hancock County to help families in need. People can sign up as individuals, families, school groups or church groups. Sign up early to pick your time and location. Ringers are needed from Nov. 24-Dec. 24. Visit registertoring.com.
-If your local church, public safety agency or club has information on how to help local families in need, please email [email protected] to be included in a future brief or listing.
