The annual Warm the Children (WTC) program will begin this November. WTC is a charitable project which provides warm winter clothing for children living in Tucker County. It was started by The Parsons Advocate in the early 1990’s. Today, the Tucker Community Foundation, Elkins K-Mart, the Family Resource Network & Family Resource Center, North Central Community Action and the school system have partnered to continue to implement and coordinate this valuable program.
Last year, approximately 168 area children received clothing through WTC. It is estimated that since the program began more than 2700 local children have been served. In 2015 WTC served the majority of children that were recommended. Unfortunately, as has been the trend over the past several years, donations to the WTC program continue to lag, while at the same time the number of applicants seeking warm clothing have increased significantly.
It’s been a difficult year for many local families given the challenges of the current economy and other factors that families face living in rural, isolated counties like Tucker. The annual Warm The Children (WTC) program is one way that others can help lend a hand to those in need. The program is tax-deductible and is a great way for generous citizens, businesses and organizations to share some holiday spirit.
“We estimate that we will have no less than 160 children referred to the 2016 Warm The Children Program. If donations continue at the current rate we may not be able to serve all the families who are identified. Additional funds are desperately needed to serve the entire list, our goal is to leave no child un-served.” stated April Miller, Executive Director of the Tucker County Family Resource Network.
So we are reaching out to you just a little further this year! Please consider making, even the smallest donation, to the Tucker County Warm The Children Program. You can rest assured that your contribution, no matter how small will be making a huge difference in the health and well-being of a child! Keep in mind that all the funds you donate will go directly to the purchase of clothing. There are no administrative costs attached to your donation.
Your tax-deductible contribution to the Tucker County Warm the Children program can be made to the Parsons Advocate, P.O. Box 345, Parsons, WV 26287. You can also contact them at 478-3533 for more information.
