The AFL-CIO Adopt-A-Family program is lagging behind on adoptions with the countdown to Christmas underway.

As of Thursday night 536 families have been adopted through the Christmas assistance program but the agency is still trying to help another 253 families totaling 838 individuals who may not be able to afford to provide a Christmas of their own.

“We have a variety of sizes, from single and elderly adults, to families with 2 to 10 family members,” said Penny Adams, AFL-CIO Community Services Ex. Dir. “If you want to help, but cannot afford much, it doesn’t take more than the cost of dinner and a movie to provide Christmas to many of our single applicants. For families, we estimate that it could be a little as $100 for a single parent with a young child. Of course, as there are more people in the household, the cost can increase, and we suggest that groups or families join together to provide for a family in need.”

The agency said any help is appreciated this time of year.

“If you want to help, but do not have the time to shop, we can provide gift certificates for the family you choose,” Adams said.

Individuals wanting to assist the Adopt-A-Family program can call the AFL-CIO at (816) 364-1131.