City Union Mission distributing over 11,000 gifts to at-risk families

The City Union Mission Christmas Store, a key component of the ministry’s Mission Christmas outreach, will close on December 21.

Here, at-risk, income-qualified men, women, and children can “shop” for their families without incurring any expenses.  While the ministry is preparing for the distribution of holiday gifts to homeless guests staying at the Mission, gift shopping is coming to an end at the Christmas Store.

“Our Christmas Store has allowed Kansas City’s working-poor families to enjoy gift shopping for their loved ones without the worry of having to choose between putting food on the table or presents under the tree this Christmas,”  says Dr. Terry Megli, chief executive officer of City Union Mission. “Even though our store doors will be closing, the spirit of giving continues as we prepare to deliver presents to those staying with us at the Mission this holiday.”

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Around 1,050 families, or approximately 3,000 people, received over 11,000 toys, clothes, household goods, and other gifts from The Mission’s Christmas Store this Christmas season.  Every family that made purchases at the Christmas Store also received a Christmas Meal Box, which included holiday meal ingredients and a coupon for a turkey.

“Thousands of our area’s most vulnerable families and individuals have experienced the joy and the love of Christ this Christmas thanks to the amazing support of our community,” Megli said.  “We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who has chosen to use our Mission Christmas outreach this holiday season to improve the lives of those who are less fortunate.”

Online contributions to the Mission are accepted at cityunionmisson.org. The Mission’s website also has information on their year-round programs and services, volunteer opportunities, and lists of critical needs.

–Dwight Widaman | MV