The Beacon House Toy Project continued partnership 2020

Dear Fr. Benjamin Thomas, the Vestry and Parishioners, and Christa,

We would like to express our deepest appreciation for the use of your basement, the ground level area, including the Memorial Lounge, for the Family Promise/Beacon House Christmas Toy and Gift distribution. Your Bell Tower turn around area was perfect for people to pull in and pick-up gift bags! In addition, Newman Parish, University Lutheran, and Peace Lutheran also partnered together.

As you know, due to COVID-19, this year’s program was significantly different. Parents/guardians completed an application form and identified their children’s interests. Volunteers selected the toys and gifts based on toy and gift suggestions. During designated times, a parent/guardian drove through and picked up a bag or bags of toys and gifts for their child/children.

Family Promise of the Chippewa Valley/Beacon House staff purchased gifts with community donations. Toys were also received from the Festival of Toys on December 4-5 and Midwest Family Broadcasting (98.1) with John Murphy. Many community sponsors were involved. The generosity of people was overwhelming! We were grateful for all of the donations. Children, once again, received toys, gifts, books, games, puzzles, and clothing. We provided wrapping paper, tape, and batteries for toys as needed and some gift cards for teenagers. The parents were very appreciative!!! Many commented on how difficult this year has been for them and their family!

To no one’s surprise, we experienced a significant increase with participation, reflecting the needs of our society. We had 112 families and 340 children benefit from the program this year, an increase of 42 families and 124 children compared to 2019.

We appreciated having access to your space through trusting us with a key and scan card. The elevator was a tremendous help. It was also very handy for the Family Promise/Beacon House staff and clients to have the toy/gift give away right across the street.

Our deep gratitude goes to Christa who is absolutely wonderful to work with! All of the staff have been so accommodating and welcoming of this project!!! Please extent a special thank you to your custodians, Dale and Grace, for their labor with the table set up. We know that it was a lot of work to haul and set up all the tables!

Overall, with all of the changes made due to COVID-19, the whole project went well from start to finish. Early in January, we will meet with Family Promise of Chippewa Valley/Beacon House staff to discuss any changes for next year. Please let us know if you have any suggestions or comments.

We are sending you wishes for a joy filled Christmas season and a blessed 2021!

With gratitude,
Laurie Hittman, Lou Hoeschen, Brian Hoeschen, and Suzie Slota