Elves Wanted!

Elves help make many miracles happen, so Vista Maria is looking for elves to help them spread holiday cheer with their Holiday Wish List Program.

According to their press release, the Holiday Wish List Program ensures that the children of Vista Maria have the best Christmas possible. Vista Maria wants to provide a positive Christmas experience because many of their children have not associated Christmas as a happy time in the past.

They are asking for donations from individuals and community groups to help Vista Maria with the holiday season by showing their children that sometimes even complete strangers care enough about them to give a Christmas gift that reflects the hope and goodwill of the season.

Once you commit to sponsoring a child in the community program, you will receive a list of items. Your gifts or stocking stuffers will then be wrapped and given to the children to give them a magical and memorable Christmas.

Recommended items that are needed include new shoes (no laces), socks, pajamas, sweaters, shampoo, etc. Also the items that children are asking for include board games, books, DVD's, coloring books, craft kits, gift cards, etc. For a detailed list of gifts for girls, please click here.

According to Vista Maria information, since 1883 Vista Maria has provided the treatment, education and resources necessary for full recovery of girls suffering abuse, neglect and trauma. Many other girls and boys from the community benefit on a daily basis from the services of Vista Maria including its Village of Hope Academies charter schools, Journey to Success Program, Foster Care programs and the Shepherd Hall Transitional Living Program.

Donations are due on December 7. To schedule your drop-off at Vista Maria or for more information, go to VistaMaria.org or contact the Associate Manager of Volunteer Services, Rebecca Hermann, at 313-203-2027.