The final two days for applying for Christmas assistance through Christmas Bureau agencies will be this Thursday and Friday at the Hurley YMCA on Jake Alexander Boulevard. Application times are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The bureau handles the sign-up process for Christmas Happiness, the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree, Toys for Tots of Rowan County, Project Santa in Denton and The Arc of Rowan’s Operation Santa Claus.
The Christmas Bureau held two application days last week, with the help of volunteers, agency staff and the Rowan County United Way.
Jeanie Moore, co-chair of the new bureau, says there may be confusion about the new consolidated approach. Several people who applied last week commented that deadlines have been closer to the holidays at Social Services, where people used to apply for Christmas Happiness.
But now, applications for Christmas Happiness are made through the Christmas Bureau, and the Salvation Army will distribute the vouchers. (Donations will continue to be taken through the Salisbury Post.)
Parents or legal guardians applying for Christmas help from any of the programs above should bring the following:
• A current N.C. picture ID or driver’s license,
• A W-7 for every member in the household
• If ID is expired, a lease and utility bill
• Medicaid card
• Birth certificate for all children 12 and under
• Proof of all income and expenses
• Unemployment and food stamp verification letter
• Custody papers if guardian