Community Thread’s Holiday Hope Program Expands and Seeks Community Sponsors

Community Thread’s Holiday Hope Program Expands and Seeks Community Sponsors 
This year marks the 50-year anniversary of Community Thread’s Holiday Hope program. Since 1970, Holiday Hope has touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on those who would not otherwise have enjoyed the traditions of gift giving and a holiday meal.  
 
Over the past 10 years, the number of people impacted by this program has grown by 40% more households and 31% more individuals in the Stillwater Area School District alone. Each year over 400 households receive personalized gifts and a holiday meal thanks to the generosity of our community sponsors. 
 
This year the need is greater than ever. Community Thread is proud to respond to this need and meet increasing demands by partnering with Christian Cupboard Emergency Food Shelf to register people in Woodbury, Oakdale and Landfall. With this expansion, we anticipate doubling the number of households served in 2019.  
 
Community Thread is currently seeking community sponsors to support those in need during the holidays. This year, Holiday Hope sponsors will provide gifts cards that will be used to purchase essential items as well as holidays gifts and a meal.  
 
Thanks to the generosity of community member Douglas Voegeli and business sponsors DiaSorin, Artis Senior Living, Bluestone Physician Services, and First State Bank and Trust, Holiday Hope makes a meaningful impact in the lives of local individuals and families during the holiday season.  
 
“Last year Holiday Hope served over 1,200 low-income families and individuals in the Stillwater Area School District, including 670 children,” states Jennifer Kmecik, Community Thread Volunteer Center Director. “Each year the need continues to grow, and we know this year will be no different – especially due to the impact of COVID-19.” 
 
Sponsorship forms are available on Community Thread’s website, by phone or email request, or in person at Community Thread. Forms will be accepted through December 1. Community Thread also accepts cash and donations of gift cards which are directed toward families in need. 
 
For over 50 years, Community Thread has connected people, neighborhoods and lives together to strengthen the community. The nonprofit’s mission is to leverage resources and volunteers to improve the quality of life for adults and their families in our local community. The vision of Community Thread is a community where all people are engaged, enriched and connected. To learn more, visit www.CommunityThreadMN.org, or call 651-439-7434.