Greater Needs for 2017
This is Servant’s Heart’s second year to collect for Christmas, and the need is greater than ever. There are 50 more children on the list over last year, and a waiting list beyond that. “As Mint Hill grows, so grows the needs of our community,” said Servant’s Heart Director Kim Rhodarmer.
Located at 9229 Lawyers Road in Mint Hill, Servant’s Heart has been serving the community for the last year and a half with proceeds from their resale store. Relying mostly on volunteers to staff the business, the store is more like a boutique, as the clothing is at the higher end of fashion, with a dedicated designer area. They also offer children’s clothing, men’s clothing, and household and decorating articles.
The toy drive is for those families in the Lebanon School district and Northeast Middle School who need a helping hand this Christmas. Both are considered Title 1 schools. During the Christmas season in 2016, Servant’s was able to serve 14,000 people. This year’s number of those in need has increased.
Servant’s Heart is collecting new, unopened toys for children ages 0-12. Ideally, the price will still be displayed on the toy. This is because families being served are given up to $100 in “money” per child to shop for each of their children, so it is helpful to know the price of the toy rather than looking it up on Amazon. The toys are organized to make shopping easier, and when the gifts have been chosen, gift wrapping is available.
Children over 12 years old are given $75 in gift cards. Servant’s Heart is asking donations of for gift cards in $25 increments from Target or Walmart. “We chose those two stores because it is easier to get there through public transportation,” Kim said. “Obviously, many of the families we serve don’t have cars.” Last Christmas, $2,500 in gift cards was given; this year we need $5,500.”
Donations may be dropped off at Servant’s Heart Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed on Sunday. Kim asks that the donations be brought to the store by December 20.
