NORTH HARBOR, Fla. – Northern harbour Social Services needs help bringing Christmas cheer to the North Port community.
As Social Services Manager for the City of North Port, Janet Carrillo’s days are busy. With Christmas approaching, she has a lot to do.
“When I saw the song, I thought, oh my God, it’s going to be a really big project, but we can do it,” Carrillo told FOX 13.
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In addition to their work, Social Services has an ‘Adopt n Shop’ program.
Social services Noordhaven
They help families with gifts for their children and sometimes with food.
This year they have seen an increase in requests for Christmas assistance. In recent years, about 350 families have signed up for assistance, but this year that number has increased to 560.
“I think we’re just in recovery mode since Covid. Post-Covid we had Ian, and this year alone we’ve had a few hurricanes come this way and we’ve seen an increase in rental assistance and utility assistance. Carrillo said.
Individuals, organizations and businesses as a whole can adopt families.
“I like it. I think it gives adopters a rewarding experience. Personally, I like to go shopping for a family and just experience the holidays in a different way,” Carillo said.
Carrillo is hopeful that others will do their part to keep Christmas bright for everyone.
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“We have several HOAs that are consistently adopting year after year. We have departments, agencies and local citizens that are stepping it up,” Carrillo said.
Carrillo ended with, “I am always impressed by the generosity of the North Port community. I know we can handle this. We just need a little extra help.”
To help with North Port’s social services, click Adopt ‘N Shop here.
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