Throngs of smiling, excited children from all corners of the region rushed into Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit with their families on December 6 as if Christmas was coming early.
That’s because in a way, it was.
They were part of the Adopt-A-Child program created by the North End Youth Improvement Council (NEYIC). Again this year people working in S3’s Detroit offices and other business and organizations in the city brought Christmas gifts for more than 2,500 underprivileged youngsters. Those participating are asked to donate warm coats, mittens, gloves, clothing and a toy. S3 employees have donated gifts to the program for more than 10 years.
“The children receive much needed clothing and often a toy or other gifts that let them know love, kindness and caring are very much a part of Detroit,” said Cindy Pasky, president and CEO of Strategic Staffing Solutions, which is participating in the program. “When the children’s faces light up you can see the true meaning of the season … giving back and gaining joy from the true meaning of love …. doing things for others.”
The program is open to every family and child who needs it, no matter which neighborhood or metro Detroit city they live in. It was founded more than 50 years ago, and they’ve seen a lot of changes over the years.
“Our goal is to extend a hand of loving kindness to youngsters who come to us from foster care, single parent homes and shelters,” said Mary Bennett of the North End Youth Improvement Council (NEYIC). “Typically we run out of good Samaritans long before we run out of kids in need of our assistance.”
Sponsors include 36th District Court, Craig Strong, Lakeshore, Child Protective Services, Detroit 300, KPMG, Skillman Foundation, NAACP, White Castle, the Detroit Police Department, Betty DeRamus, Mayor Bing’s Office; the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Comerica, IRS, General Motors Foundation, Skillman Foundation, The UPS Foundation, City of Detroit ITS Department & Department of Recreation, The Lake Community Church and other volunteers from near and far to give a helping hand.
A litany of organizations presented checks during the event, including UAW/GM, Sheriff Benny Napoleon’s office and Strategic Staffing Solutions. The UAW check exceeded $10,000. Many of the employees of these groups volunteer their time wrapping and selecting presents, as well as spending time with the kids.
There’s still time if you want to support the organization with a donation. After all, need knows no season. Visit the North End Improvement Council website here.
