Campus of Change

Ending Homelessness in the Fox Valley

‘Tis the Season of Giving

Posted on Dec 30, 2015 by

During this year’s holiday party, COTS residents, staff and board members were welcomed by a plethora of delicious food, festive music, and last but not least an enthusiastic volunteer dressed as an elf!

Thanks to the wonderful donation of Festival Foods gift cards from Avenue Jewelers, the meal consisted of favorite recipes prepared by residents. By choosing recipes from past holidays, residents were able to conjure up fond memories with friends and family. Among the most popular dishes at the party were egg rolls, cheesecake and death by chocolate.

After finishing up with the delectable feast, everyone sang “Jingle Bells” before the much anticipated raffle drawing and gift opening. Gifts were provided by countless supporters throughout the community: JanSport, 91.9/91.5 The Family, Thrivent Financial, St. Mary’s Parish, St. Bernard Parish, First Presbyterian Church Neenah, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Atlas Coffee Mill & Café, First English Lutheran Church and several individuals donors. We are so grateful to belong to such a giving community!
The raffle was perhaps the highlight of the evening, with many residents winning prizes. One young adult was excited that he was able to pick out a prize of beautiful earrings to give to his sister for Christmas, as he couldn’t afford to buy her a gift.

Our holiday party succeeded in bringing residents together to experience the joys of belonging to a community. There was constant laughter and merriment throughout the entire evening, as our residents were provided with the comforts of “home” during a time that is difficult for many of them.One resident exclaimed, “I never had anything like this before!” Thank you again to our many generous supporters throughout the Fox Valley for making this special evening possible.