To the editor:
Dear Community: 2020 presented many challenges for Tap-In. The remodeling of our facility forced us to relocate for months, the pandemic caused restrictive operational measures …
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To the editor:
Dear Community: 2020 presented many challenges for Tap-In. The remodeling of our facility forced us to relocate for months, the pandemic caused restrictive operational measures and severely reduced our volunteer numbers, all while dramatically adding to those needing assistance. Despite it all, we had a record year. Your support allowed us to continue in ways we never imagined.
The last three months of 2020 saw a 50 percent increase over 2019, in the number of families coming to us for help. Despite this unforeseen surge in demand, Tap-In was able to respond with food and toiletries for more than 500 households, averaging 1,500 individuals per month.
Tap-In also carried out its traditional Thanksgiving and holiday programs, though COVID 19 limitations and a reduced number of volunteers led to innovations in what could be distributed. Families were able to celebrate with Thanksgiving and holiday meals and give presents to their children with gift cards instead of our customary food and toy donations.
For Thanksgiving, we gave $30 cards to 552 families, 44 percent more than in 2019,
For the holidays, we helped 562 households, with $30 cards for adult households, $50 for small families and $65 for large families, a 101 percent increase over 2019. We were especially happy to reach 550 children.
With the holidays over, the work continues. We are initiating our first-ever blanket drive to give blankets/comforters to our families. After food, this is our most requested item, and winter is far from over.
On behalf of Tap-In, we thank you for your generosity. We are grateful for your trust and loyalty. May your New Year be filled with as much hope and promise as you gave to others in 2020.
Tirza Rivera-Cira
Barrington
Ms. Rivera-Cira is Tap-In president.