Commitment. It’s a big word.

The Allen Community Outreach’s Christmas in July campaign is all about hometown commitment. While the Christmas season brings good tidings and generous hearts, the well-being of our community – our neighbors and families – requires a commitment that stretches beyond a particular holiday or season because financial emergencies can occur at any time.

As the only human service agency for Allen, Fairview and Lucas, the ACO has helped families rebuild their lives through the services provided.  For instance, there is Margo, a single mom with 3 children.  Her husband had left her and she was staying with a relative trying to find a job.  Everyday she came to ACO to check on job listings.  A job interview became available at one of the local businesses.  Margo received a voucher to the Resale Shop for interview clothes and shoes.  She nervously practiced her interview techniques with the ACO caseworker and then was sent on the interview.  Margo was chosen for the position!  With rent and utility assistance, Margo has now moved her family into an apartment.  When asked how she feels, Margo said, “I no longer dread going home and having to look into the eyes of my children as they question me about what we have to eat and are we going to move again!”.  That is the power of commitment!

The need is now!  Take a moment to go the Christmas in July   donation page and help ACO continue to be committed to our friends and neighbors in need.