The turmoil in the economy has hit many working poor. But with a gift of $50 per child or $250 per family, your church or small group can empower financially struggling parents and grandparents to purchase Christmas presents for their children at deeply discounted prices--while preserving their dignity and sacred role as providers.

Won't you join us in setting up, decorating and stocking the Christmas Store--in donating new toys, books, bikes, electronic items, winter clothing or other unwrapped gifts--or in making a financial contribution in the box at right?

Through events like the annual Christmas Store, Hope for the Inner City is committed to seeing the urban poor move from dependency to self-sufficiency.

Volunteers

• Setup: We need your help to set up, decorate, stock and merchandise the Christmas Store on Saturday, December 10, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.


• Take-Down: We need help cleaning up and taking down the store on December 23, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.


• Staffing: Or you can staff the store for one or more shifts during the business days noted below. Individuals, church groups and community groups are invited to serve in various ways.

Store Hours

Shoppers must apply in advance at Hope for the Inner City's main office, 1800 Roanoke Ave. The Christmas Store will be open to qualified low-income shoppers during the following hours:

• December 12-23: weekdays, 12 noon to 5 p.m.