The Christmas Program
Each year, the Christmas Program at The Maine Children's Home distributes boxes of gifts and clothing to approximately 1,600 financially disadvantaged children throughout the state. It is the only program of its kind that provides new toys, books, games and new, warm clothing to boys and girls throughout Maine.
Each child typically receives (box contents may vary):
- Mittens, Thinsulate gloves, and a hat
- A reading book
- A coloring/activity book
- Crayons or markers
- A large and a small toy
- A family game
- A warm outfit
In order to qualify, families must:
- Meet state income guidelines (we currently work at 135 percent of the federal poverty level)
- Agree not to accept Christmas assistance from any other organization unless it is food
- Be the parent or legal guardian of the children for which they are applying
- Apply only for children who are 12 or under
- Provide social security numbers for each income-earning individual in the household
- Provide their annual gross household income and any food stamps or child support received
- Be willing to provide proof of income
How to Get Involved
Starting every October, we seek volunteers for the following:
- Intake Operators
Requires a commitment of one or more days per week from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Packers
Select and pack Christmas gifts for each child we serve - Checkers
Experienced packers with an eye for detail and precision - Inventory Assistants
Log in items as they are donated - Box Movers
Move boxes from our packing location to storage in the basement - Inventory Stockers, General Housekeeping and Organization
- Friends of MCH
A group of dedicated people who support The Maine Children's Home through volunteerism and fundraising
Donation Guidelines
All items donated to the Christmas Program should be:
1. Newly purchased
2. In original packaging free of dents, tears or dirt
Our Supporters
The Christmas Program is made possible thanks to the ongoing support of the Maine Army National Guard as well as the contributions of a multitude of people, businesses and schools. To see a list of the Christmas Program's organizational supporters, click here.
Contact Us
For more information about the Christmas Program, please contact Christmas Program Director and Volunteer Coordinator Cristen Sawyer via e-mail or by calling (207) 872-0261.
