Catholic Charities Seeks Donations and Sign-Ups for Annual Santa’s Workshop

Catholic Charities of Buffalo has launched its annual Santa’s Workshop, aiming to ensure that children across Western New York experience the joy of unwrapping gifts this Christmas.

 

The program, a key component of the WNY Holiday Toy Partnership, serves infants through teenagers, providing them with new, unwrapped toys, books, board games, puzzles, and stocking stuffers.

 

“With the holiday season upon us, many families face financial challenges,” said Julie Lulek, senior director at Catholic Charities. “We anticipate an increase in referrals for our Santa’s Workshop and encourage those who can to contribute, helping us spread the Christmas spirit to children and teens in need throughout our community.”

 

There is a particular need for items suitable for children aged 10 and older. Suggested donations include:

 

For Boys:

 

- Hoodies and sweatshirts

- Socks

- Cologne sets

- Wallets

- Basketballs, footballs, and soccer balls

 

For Girls:

 

- Plush blankets

- Lotion and body wash sets

- Nail polish kits

- Plush socks

 

Donations can be dropped off at the following locations:

 

- Catholic Charities Montante Administration Center – 741 Delaware Ave., Buffalo (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

- Forno Napoli Authentic Pizza & Italian Kitchen – 1280 Sweet Home Rd. #105, Amherst (Tuesday to Sunday, 4 to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon to 9 p.m.)

- Resurgence Brewing – 55 Chicago St., Buffalo (during business hours)

- Urban Valet Dry Cleaners – 620 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo (during business hours)

- Urban Valet Dry Cleaners – 4081 N. Buffalo St., Orchard Park (during business hours)

 

Additionally, individuals in need who are not already Catholic Charities clients can sign up for assistance. Registration is open now through Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Downtown District Office, 525 Washington St., Buffalo, from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. For referrals, call 716-856-4494.

 

Applicants must bring:

 

- Photo ID

- Proof of residence

- Proof of income for the past 30 days

- ID for all children being registered

- Social security numbers for all household members

 

Referrals are handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Current eligible Catholic Charities clients will be referred through their caseworker.

 

In related news, the Ladies of Charity are also seeking donations for their holiday program, aiming to assist 500 families throughout Western New York. They are in need of similar items and encourage community members to contribute.

 

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Catholic Charities at 716-856-4494.