The university community has so far committed to sponsoring 38 families under the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation’s Adopt-a-Family program, but opportunities remain available to others, says the coordinator of the campus campaign.

“The more the merrier!” says Mary Anne Beaudoin, administrative assistant in the Office of Public Affairs and Communications. She has spearheaded the University’s involvement for more than 20 years.

Adopt-a-Family involves departments and individuals in gathering holiday gifts for local families in need, especially food and clothing in addition to toys for children, as these items are often financially difficult for the families to obtain.

Sponsors may choose a small, medium or large-sized family or a youth on extended care. Small families consist of a single parent and child; a large family may have two parents and four children. A youth on extended care is an individual over the age of 16 years old, living independently, attending school and trying to manage on a very limited budget.

To adopt a family, contact Beaudoin at 519-253-3000, ext. 3240 or e-mail mbeaud@uwindsor.ca. Sponsors receive a profile of family members and their wishes, with a list of things to keep in mind when delivering your gifts. All gifts are due by Wednesday, December 3, in front of Essex Hall—a truck will take delivery of donations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.