WTHR |Charities struggle to meet high demand

Charities struggle to meet high demand

Indianapolis - Charitable groups in Central Indiana are preparing for high demand this holiday season. Daily reports of job cuts and high prices for basic household items like groceries and utility bills have many groups getting ready to take care of even more people.

Myrtle Bailey's dining room is overflowing with toys. But it's not enough for the estimated 1,300 children whose Boone County families can't afford to buy gifts this Christmas.

"I just hope and pray that the mothers will understand why we're doing this," said Bailey.

For the first time in 31 years, the Boone County Toy Drive will give toys to kids only up to age 12. In the past, children up to 16 got gifts.

"We have never ever, ever done that. It breaks my heart. It really breaks my heart we have to do this," said Bailey.

The Mozel Sanders Foundation is also expecting a record need for this year's Thanksgiving dinner. Organizers think volunteers will be dishing out up to 40,000 thousand meals November 27th - 10,000 more than normal.

"There's just such a great economic crisis in the country," said Rev. Roosevelt Sanders, Mozel Sanders Foundation. "You just know there are going to be more people that are going to need the kind of services we provide during the holidays."

Organizers of IMPD's Clothe-A-Child program aren't sure how many kids they'll be helping this year, but they are certain the need will be great.

Last year, officers spent the day with children shopping for clothes and a few Christmas gifts. Some 78 children whose families have had contact with the criminal justice system were each given around $500 in merchandise. This year, will likely help even more kids in need.

"Somehow, some way. That's how it's always worked. And it's just a step of faith that people will help us with our project," said Liz Allison, Indianapolis Metro Police Department.

Learn how you can help:

Mozel Sanders 
Contact: 317-636-7985

Boone County Toy Drive:

Contact: 765-482-4641

Also, toys are being collected at both Lebanon Fire Department stations; the Zionsville Fire Department; the Old West Wood Shop, 223 E. Fordice St.; the Lebanon Street Department and Bailey's home, 407 E. Fordice St., Lebanon. Residents in the Jamestown area may arrange pickup of contributions by calling (765) 676-5243.

IMPD Clothe-A-Child
Contact: Liz Allison
317-327-3452