Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry offers several different programs to help Polk County neighbors in need celebrate the holiday season.

During Thanksgiving, Outreach distributes grocery store gift cards to help families and individuals purchase food to cook their Thanksgiving meal.

At Christmas, two programs are offered to provide assistance: grocery store gift cards and holiday wish list angels. Children and senior citizens can participate anonymously in the wish list angel program by providing a list of several needs. Outreach will distribute the wish lists to churches and other organizations that want to purchase these gifts.

Outreach will begin accepting applications for all holiday programs on Sept. 19.  Applications for Thanksgiving assistance must be in by Nov. 1 and the final day to apply for Christmas assistance is Nov. 17.

To apply, come by Outreach (134 White Drive, Columbus N.C.) Monday – Thursday, 9-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3:30 p.m. or Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Applicants must be residents of Polk County and provide proof of income if not participating in SNAP, Medicaid or Work First programs.

Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has served Polk County residents for 25 years. The organization’s mission is to provide compassionate assistance to Polk County residents who are unable to provide for their basic life needs. For more information on Outreach, please visit tboutreach.org or call 828-894-2988.

– article submitted by Margot Carter