Giving Angels is struggling

According to Mark Moorehead of Giving Angels Mission, this season has already presented its challenges.

“Donations are down significantly this year, our boxes are mostly empty and we’re in a bit of a panic,” Moorehead stated, adding that all of the items generated by the all-volunteer nonprofit are given directly to low-income seniors.

Founded in 2004, Giving Angels provides gift bags filled with hygiene and personal care items to 600-plus underprivileged seniors living at home throughout the Verde Valley. Nearly 20 drop-box locations are located throughout the area.

Gifts may be dropped off until Dec. 12.

“We urgently need donations for our drop boxes. Items needed include unscented lotion, note cards, stamps, kitchen towels, dishcloths, pot holders and large print books,” Moorehead said.
Other commonly requested items are towel sets, blankets and throws, tissue boxes, paper towels and game books.

“Also, we still need volunteers to wrap, bag and deliver the holiday bags,” Moorehead added.

Once added to the list, volunteers will be scheduled to contribute time from Friday through Friday, Dec. 9 to 16. Tasks include collecting, sorting, purchasing and wrapping gifts, delivering gift bags and hand writing notes.

“Many of these seniors live alone and rarely see anyone all year,” Moorehead said. “So, connecting with them involves more than the delivery of a much-appreciated gift, it’s also a time for them to talk with someone that cares.”

In addition to gifts and volunteer hours, Giving Angels is also in need of 20 large folding tables and folding chairs for volunteers to put gift bags together.

Anyone interested in contributing to the efforts may contact Moorehead at 254-3930 or info@givingangelsofaz.com.