Two years ago, the Taylor Goodfellows made sure that 81 families including over 193 children benefited from the motto of “No child without a Christmas …” Last season, those numbers increased to 93 families and over 231 children, according to Goodfellows President and Deputy City Clerk Sara El-Rifaai. This year, the group is hoping to improve on those numbers even more as they kick their campaign into overdrive this holiday season.
The gifts that the Goodfellows deliver aren’t always toys. Since the group restarted in 2017, many of the people sought “necessities.” That included basics like body wash, food, socks and other clothing. The basics were especially important during the worldwide pandemic, but remain so today.
Each child in the Taylor program is given clothes and hygiene products specific to their age and needs. Since a large part of the magic of the holidays is for parents to be able to spend time with their family and friends, providing these type of items allows them to enjoy the season with their children.
The Goodfellows emphasize that applications for holiday aid are filled out as soon as possible. The filing deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday, November 22. Applications can be found on the Taylor Goodfellows Facebook page or by emailing taylorgoodfellows@gmail.com.
Naturally, donations are a large part of the campaign. Goodfellows will be selling newspapers on busy street corners on the following days:
- Friday, November 24 through Sunday, November 26
- Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3
The Goodfellows accept new and unused toys, coats, hats, gloves, clothes and hygiene products, as well as monetary donations. Gifts can be dropped off at the Clerk’s Office at City Hall (23555 Goddard) during regular business hours.
Another great way to support the effort is to participate in the Winterfest Goodfellows 5K Run and Walk, scheduled for Saturday December 2. The run/walk will begin and end at the Sheridan Center Open Air Pavilion in Heritage Park and proceeds will go to the Goodfellows.
For more information on Taylor Goodfellows, please call (313) 461-2919 or email taylorgoodfellows@gmail.com.