Organization seeks volunteers to assist with the unique holiday fundraiser

Kay Hurley

Special to the News-Herald

Wondering what to get for that hard to shop for person on your Christmas list?

The Suffolk Chapter of the American Cross has the answer. The Red Cross is sponsoring living Christmas cards, a unique way to get your shopping done with a sure to please gift, all the while benefiting local disaster victims.

From Dec. 12-18, the Suffolk Chapter of the American Red Cross will offer living Christmas cards to Suffolk residents for a $25.00 donation (tax deductible) per card.

Singers visit the recipient, perform a favorite holiday carol and deliver a personal message from the sender.

Each card will include a live performance of a carol and personal message by a volunteer trio, a card with the sender’s name and a sprig of mistletoe adorned with a red ribbon. The performance will end with the singers performing &uot;We Wish You a Merry Christmas.&uot;

The sender can choose from a selection of four carols.

To be sure the gift is delivered, the recipient will receive an appointment card in advance, with a number to call to reschedule if the time is not convenient.

&uot;We plan to offer corporate packages to offices with more than one department. They will get a discount for multiple carols at the same address,&uot; said Donna Perry, financial development coordinator for the local Red Cross.

&uot;I already have one realtor who has requested that living Christmas cards be sent to clients who have just closed on their homes.&uot;

The Red Cross is seeking volunteers of all vocal abilities to help spread the holiday cheer. Perry noted, &uot;I realize that everyone has a lot on their plates during the holidays, but I hope that volunteers will be willing to donate a few spare hours during that week.&uot;

&uot;The holiday season is an excellent time to give back to the community,&uot; Perry continued.

&uot;It costs an average of $1000 to provide assistance to a family of four. This assistance includes food, lodging, clothing and medication.

This is a unique way to help the families who rely on the Red Cross to help them through some of the most difficult times of their lives.&uot;

If you would like to volunteer your singing talents or if you would like to order a living Christmas card, a memorable gift that will also give back to the community, call Perry at 539-6645.