MISSION:

To provide winter mittens, hats, and scarves to local individuals and families in need.

DESCRIPTION:

As part of our annual, "Deck the Halls" service, volunteers (coordinated via the Worship Committee) obtain and set up an evergreen tree (historically this has been donated). Prior to the service, congregants purchase new mittens, hats and scarves to donate. During the "Deck the Halls" service, congregants decorate the tree with the winter items they have purchased. After the service, volunteers collect the items and take them to the Natick Service Council to be distributed to individuals and families in need. The evergreen tree is donated to a family or organization.

UU PRINCIPLES:

The "Mitten Tree" project honors our affirmation and promotion for "Justice, equity and compassion in human relations" by providing mittens, hats and scarves to those who would otherwise be unable to obtain them.

SCHEDULE:

The "Deck the Halls" service takes place on the 1st Sunday in December. The tree is setup the day before.

PARTICIPATION:

The entire congregation participates in this activity by purchasing new mittens, hats and scarves and decorating the "Mitten Tree." Anyone may suggest an individual, family or organization to receive the tree after the service. Anyone may help with the setup of the tree, collection of the donated items after the service or cleanup after the service (at least one adult over the age of 18 is required to supervise this activity). Adults over the age of 18 are required to bring the donated items to the Natick Service Council and to transport the donated tree to the selected individual, family or organization.

DONATIONS:

The congregation contributes by purchasing new mittens, hats and scarves. Additionally, the Natick Service Council welcomes volunteers and financial donations throughout the year.

BENEFITS:

Donated mittens, hats and scarves provide warmth to those in need during a New England winter, which may be particularly cold and difficult. The Natick Service Council is an ideal partner in this effort. It provides our local community with access to emergency aid, food programs (NSC runs the Natick Food Pantry), housing assistance, heat and utility assistance, financial assistance, and advocacy.

CONTACTS:

James Francis: francis@payload.com