Nov. 5--People who need help this holiday season may apply for the Catholic Charities Christmas Sharing program beginning Nov. 16.

The charity distributes toys, hats and gloves for children ages 17 and under and food to adults and families.

Applications will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Nov. 16-19 at 5725 E. Kellogg, in a former auto parts store on the frontage road east of Edgemoor. Clothing and food will be distributed at the same location Dec. 11-12.

Those who apply need to bring a personal photo ID, proof of address such as a utility bill, proof of household income such as a payroll stub or bank statement, and an official document listing Social Security number and date of birth for each child and adult in the household. Documents from schools will work.

Spanish-speaking translators will be available all four days. A Vietnamese translator will be available Nov. 17.

Catholic Charities helps individuals who are not enrolled in other holiday assistance programs. Last year it helped about 900 children and 300 families.

"We already have seen an increase at our food pantry" because of the recession and high number of layoffs, said Teresa Kunze, spokeswoman for Catholic Charities. "So we definitely are expecting a high volume" of families in need.

Volunteers also are needed to help set up and decorate the facility, organize donations, distribute items and clean up after the event.

For information on applying for assistance, volunteering or donation needs, call 316-264-8344.

Reach Suzanne Perez Tobias at 316-268-6567 or stobias@wichitaeagle.com.

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Copyright (c) 2009, The Wichita Eagle, Kan.

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