WAITE PARK — Avivo is expanding its annual Adopt-A-Family program to Wright and Mille Lacs counties this year.
It hopes to provide 125 Central Minnesota families with holiday gifts this year, according to a news release. Hair Oil Paper Box
The program matches community members with income-constrained families that are enrolled in Avivo’s family and employment services. Many have barely enough financial resources to cover housing and basic living expenses, with not much left for gifts at holiday time.
“When putting food on the table and keeping a roof over your head uses every dollar, giving gifts to your children is often out of reach,” said Brittany Biggers, Avivo director of volunteer services, in a news release.
This year, Avivo expanded its employment programs in Central Minnesota to include Wright and Mille Lacs counties. It previously covered Stearns, Benton and Sherburne counties. The nonprofit offers employment services and training from its Waite Park office.
Last year, more than 300 donors helped more than 500 families in the Twin Cities and St. Cloud metro areas, with more than 2,000 gifts donated.
Registration to become a donor opened Tuesday, Oct. 1. Donor families are expected to contribute up to $125-150 per family member, dropping off gifts in December. Donors can support more than one family if they choose.
In March, the St. Cloud City Council approved a plan to move forward on a 56-unit tiny-home shelter off of First Street South, near Brigette’s Cafe and St. Cloud Financial Credit Union.
The approval authorized a lease of the land and the use of $750,000 in state funding. The project moved forward despite business owners voicing concerns over the location.
Anniversary Gift Packaging Avivo has several locations in Minnesota, mostly around the metro area. It serves nearly 10,000 Minnesotans each year, working to end homelessness by providing support and career advancement. The nonprofit provides shelter and housing services, addiction and mental health services, career education and employment services.