The AFL-CIO Community Service said Wednesday it still has 123 families or 449 individuals in need of help this Christmas through its Adopt-A-Family program.

“At this point, we have started calling the majority of these families and inviting them to shop in our gift room. Many of these remaining families are blended families. Families with younger kids, teens, adult children and senior parents all in the same household. These are always are most challenging to get adopted,” said Penny Adams, Ex. Dir with the AFL-CIO. “With the teens and adults we never seem to have enough items in our gift room. When we do not have a sufficient number of gifts available, we give the family Kmart gift cards. At least they can go shop and get a couple things for their family.”

Adams said right now, they are going out on a limb and giving out gift cards before they actually have the funds.

“If you can help with a monetary donation, that would be a true blessing. The gift cards are $50 each. Donations of any denomination would be gladly accepted,” she said. “You can drop your donations off at our office, 1203 North 6th. You can call us and we can accept your debit or credit card information by phone, 364-1131. You can go to our website and make a donation at helpmenow.org or you can mail us a check to 1203 North 6h. Whatever way works best for you.”

The agency’s goal is to provide for everyone who needs assistance during the holiday season.

“We can only reach this goal with your help,” Adams said. “You can be someone’s Christmas blessing this year. Through your willingness these last few families don’t have to feel abandoned and uncared for this Christmas season.”