Alternative Christmas is a reminder that Jesus is the real reason we celebrate Christmas. The Alternative Christmas Giving Program provides a unique gift-giving opportunity that honors your family, friends, and even co-workers while spreading God’s love to people in real need. Five organizations have been selected for Alternative Christmas giving. Local, regional, and worldwide charities have been included. Review the different organizations, keeping in mind those persons on your Christmas-giving list. You are sure to find the right fit for everyone.
Use this wish list to make your selection. Total your giving, and you can select to donate through the online giving option or bring it, with one check made out to Buford First United Methodist Church, to the Alternative Christmas table in the Lobby of the Christian Life Center on December 4th and 11th. If you give online, the church office will contact you about getting your cards and inserts to you. Use these cards as stocking stuffers or present them to the loved one you choose to honor with your generous donation.
Mission Organizations
1. Murphy-Harpst Children’s Centers
Located in Cedartown, GA., Murphy-Harpst provides residential treatment for children ages 6-17 who need a structured environment and therapeutic treatment. Children live in a cottage setting with peers and trained staff. www.murphyharpst.org
2. North Gwinnett Co-Op
The North Gwinnett Cooperative was formed in 1991 as a ministry that provides food, clothing, financial assistance, and spiritual support to the Buford, Suwanee, and Sugar Hill areas. The Co-Op is supported by congregations, area businesses, civic organizations, schools, and individuals who generously donate food, clothing, and financial resources. www.northgwinnettcoop.org
3. Gwinnett Children’s Shelter
The Gwinnett Children’s Shelter is located right here in Buford! Our program is designed to help single mothers and their children, as well as youth who “age out” of the foster care system, achieve the necessary life skills training they NEED to thrive successfully! We provide temporary housing and counseling to help these families move on to independent living. www.gwinnettchildrenshelter.org
4. Heifer Project International
Nearly 1 billion people around the world don’t have enough food to eat. A self-help worldwide organization, the Heifer Project, supplies farm animals and training to families, with the agreement that one of the offspring will be given to a neighbor to perpetuate the program. Heifer has helped over 22 million families overcome hunger and poverty. www.heifer.org
5. UMCOR (Worldwide)
A ministry of The United Methodist Church, UMCOR’s goal is to assist the most vulnerable persons affected by crises. UMCOR’s work reaches people in 80 countries, including the United States. We provide humanitarian relief when war, conflict, or natural disaster disrupts life. UMCOR spends 100 percent of donations on the projects. Nothing is used for administrative costs. www.umc.org
Select Your gift from the different missions and their various gift options.