1. Gifts at Sea—Seafarers International House
Christmas bags are available to be filled with gift items that will be given to seafarers who will not be home with their families for Christmas. Seafarers International House port chaplains will deliver satchels to the seafarers they meet in port in the weeks prior to Christmas. Later, on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, when the ship is in the middle of the ocean, the captain will hold a celebration, and all the crew will open their satchels. What might otherwise have been another lonely night at sea becomes instead a joyous occasion, not only because of the beautiful gifts, but because strangers ashore have taken the time to share the spirit of Christmas with these seafarers. For more information go to: sihnyc.org. Those who have taken bags to fill please return them by Dec. 13.
2. Pajama & Book Drive: infants to 5 years old
New pajamas and books are magical gifts that we collect and give with love, to children. These gifts inspire children, teaching them how to use imagination and creativity to change their lives by giving them loving bedtimes, and in turn, good nights and good days. They are the building blocks of confidence, trust, and love. It’s easier than you think to comfort and delight children who need it most, giving simple but magical gifts that lift the spirit and can change the world. Bring new pajamas and books for to GA now through December 17.
3. Operation Christmas
GA member Brandon Zimmermann is part of an organization that has partnered with V1 Church in Long Island for an event called Operation Christmas. His organization is pledging to raise $100,000 to give 100 families both in NYC and Long Island, who are in the shelter system. To donate, go to: http://www.v1.church/operation-christmas/
