The Retreat’s Adopt-a-Family program is open and ready for donations for the 2024 holiday season. This community program collects holiday gifts and gift cards for families in need. Participants can start dropping off gifts the week of December 2 to The Retreat’s administrative office at 13 Goodfriend Drive in East Hampton.
The Retreat established Adopt-a-Family nearly 20 years ago when its employees in advocacy recognized a need in their clients. They collected and distributed one gift each for their clients’ children, serving about 20 families in total. Now, this holiday giving program provides for 200 families, more than 450 individuals, all of whom are current Retreat clients.
“Our Adopt-a-Family program is a chance to empower survivors by letting them buy their own toys, games, and clothing for their families through gift cards. Often, it is the first time they have the financial independence to make these decisions,” said Loretta Davis, Executive Director of The Retreat.
“It’s also a meaningful opportunity to give back by shopping for families in need,” said Cate Carbonaro, incoming Executive Director of The Retreat. “In addition to gift cards, we’re also accepting essential items, winter gear, and gifts for our clients.”
Ways to help include adopting a family and shopping specifically for them. You can also donate Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Target, Walmart, Amazon, TJ Maxx, grocery store, and gas station gift cards — the suggested amount is $100.
Other ways to help are to shop for essentials and gifts like socks, slippers, pajamas, leggings, underwear, sports bras, board games, dolls, arts and crafts, activity kits, and puzzles, or provide winter gear such as snow boots, hats, scarves, gloves, mittens and throw blankets.
To learn more and donate, visit allagainstabuse.org/events.