Thursday, April 18, 2024

CCA: Help them help others

Christmas is a time of hope and new beginnings. Originally heralded by angels announcing the momentous birth some 2,000 years ago, this time of year ushers in the warmth and the beauty of the season – the presentation of gifts, carols softly sung, lights and ornaments shimmering on the trees. However, as many celebrate abundant blessings, not everyone in the community is fortunate enough to have a tree, or gifts to go underneath. Many are suffering and feeling hopeless with nowhere to turn.

Since 1973, Lewisville-based Christian Community Action (CCA) – one of the largest private non-profits in the state – has been bringing hope and changing lives, offering financial assistance, access to healthcare, and providing food to more than 10,000 individuals annually in southern Denton County and beyond.

Those benefitting from CCA and the gifts of many donors are humbled by the assistance they receive during a time of need: “I walked into CCA at probably the lowest point in my life. CCA was a light in my darkness,” says one angel, the term CCA uses when referring to those to whom it provides assistance.

“I felt a connection to a community, to people who gave me help without judgment,” says another.

“I was so low, so down, and so rejected, with no idea what I would do next. CCA showed me love and acceptance,” notes one angel.

“People at CCA gave to me when I needed help,” comments another.

“The CCA pantry gave us food just so we could have something to eat for Thanksgiving … without them, what would we have done?”

Anyone may find themselves suffering, feeling hopeless and not knowing where to turn. Low-wage work, long-term unemployment, sudden single-parenthood or lack of health insurance are just a few of the things that have changed the face of poverty in recent years.

CCA is there to help these individuals transition out of crisis.  But it would not be able to bring hope and change lives without the help of many others. One way to help is to volunteer. Dedicated volunteers contribute over 65,000 hours of service each year.

Volunteer at one of CCA’s facilities or serve at one of CCA’s Resale stores knowing that all profits go to keeping the lights and gas on for families in need.

Volunteer at the CCA Christmas Toy Store and help provide new toys to children that would not otherwise have a gift under the tree on Christmas morning.

Make a difference by shopping for a senior citizen who is alone this holiday. Host a food, clothing, or cash drive. Or give a cash donation to help fund all of CCA’s programs and services.

Anything helps CCA bring hope by meeting the needs of the community and blessing those less fortunate during this holiday season.

Family Assistance addresses the immediate needs of families in crisis. CCA’s Adult Health Center cares for more than 5,900 patients annually. More than 500 families receive food each week at the Food Pantry. Educational programs provide training for life improvement and crisis resolution. Seasonal programs help children in the community with Christmas toys, nutritious summer lunches and back-to-school clothing and schools supplies. 

To host a drive or to give, contact Dedra Brynn at 972-219-4318 or via email at [email protected].  To volunteer, send an email to [email protected] or call 972-219-4372. 

To find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.ccahelps.org/holiday-program or keep scrolling for the current list of volunteer opportunities in Flower Mound, Frisco, Grapevine or Lewisville.

Any gift brought to CCA is a gift of hope in the name of Jesus Christ.

Consider this unique opportunity to celebrate the season by making a difference to at least one special life in the community.

If you did it for the least of these, you did it unto Him.

Merry Christmas!

Volunteer opportunities abound at CCA

The Christmas season is a very busy time at CCA and they need your help with the gift of giving time and volunteering. CCA has received an abundance of donations through their mall Giving Trees and donation centers. And they need help with the following:

December 3 thru 23

Three volunteers needed per shift at mall Giving Trees locations

Each shift is 3 hours

Locations: Stonebriar Centre, Grapevine Mills or Vista Ridge
Time needed: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

December 3 & 5

Up to 20 volunteers needed to match donated shoes at the CCA Donation Center

Location: 900 Lakeside Parkway, Flower Mound

Time needed: 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Every Friday and Saturday thru year end

Five volunteers needed per shift to assist drive-thru staff with receiving
donations at the CCA Donation Center.

Must commit to a 4-hour shift

Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs.

Location: 900 Lakeside Parkway, Flower Mound

Time needed: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Monday – Saturday

Five volunteers needed per shift to assist drive-thru staff with receiving
donations at the Old Town Lewisville Donation Drop-off.

Must commit to 4-hour shift

Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs.

Location: 200 S. Mill Street, Lewisville

Time needed: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Contact Volunteer Team

Call 972-219-4372, or send an email to [email protected] or [email protected]

Related Articles

Popular This Week