Coats, Boots, Clothing, and Toys donated to members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County
Provo, Utah, December 19, 2018-This year, 247 kids from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County have received new winter clothing, boots, clothes, and toys thanks to the generosity and kindness of Acumen Learning, JCPenney, Wayfair, Planet Fitness, and many other individuals and families. “It has been an amazing experience to partner with so many generous companies, employees, families, and individuals,” said Shanni Call, Director of Operations. “We wouldn’t have been able to meet the needs of so many of our Club members without all this support.”
“This is such a great program,” said Steve Call, Director of Business Development at Acumen Learning. “We love serving kids in need that are right around us. We hope to make this a Christmas tradition for our company.” Acumen Learning has partnered with the Club for the past two years to provide Christmas gifts for Club kids. This year, Acumen Learning provided clothing and toys for 43 kids from two different Club locations.
On December 15, JCPenney provided 25 Club kids with a giving spree. Each child was accompanied by a parent or family member and had the opportunity to spend $100 on clothes, coats, and gifts for themselves and family members. “The shopping spree really helped the families in my program, especially those who recently moved to the United States,” said Sarah Jensen, program director. This shopping event is just one of the ways that JCPenney is helping close the opportunity gap for youth in our community.
In 2004, Wayfair created a company giving program that is guided by employees. This year, the employees at Wayfair in Orem hosted a giving tree to purchase gifts for kids and families throughout Utah County, including 18 kids from the Club. The majority of the gifts came from the generosity of Wayfair employees.
Donations from NuSkin, Planet Fitness, and generous individuals and families provided gifts for the remaining 161 Club kids. “As a single mom, I am so grateful for those who are willing to help my children have a wonderful Christmas. I have taught my kids that Christmas isn’t about the presents, but it’s nice to know that they’ll have something under the tree to be excited about,” said a Club mom. “Thank you to all those who have helped my family this year.”
About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive and responsible citizens and leaders. Programs emphasize academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. The Club accepts donations and volunteers on a year-round basis. Learn more at bgcutah.org.