A Christmas Wish List

With Christmas approaching, many of us have a wish list. Our children typically wish for the latest toys, gadgets and fashions. We adults are not above wishing for new gadgets ourselves. Or perhaps a better job. Or more meaning in our lives.

Nancy Robert has a Christmas Wish List aimed at putting a smile on the faces of people in need.

Nancy Robert

 As coordinator of the boutique at Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen, she is already providing clothing and hygiene products to some 112 people a month, including children and some homeless individuals. Nancy and her volunteers operate a clothing boutique and hairstyling salon in a former classroom, and have now taken over half of a second classroom dedicated to the needs of children and infants.

The number one item on her wish list? People like you and me.

“We’re looking to increase volunteer support as services increase.” The boutique is open Mondays and Wednesdays. She would like to open a third day each week, preferably Friday. (Click here to volunteer.)

Here’s the rest of her Christmas Wish List:

• Bedding including warm blankets, sheets, comforters, pillows and pillow cases.
• Towels and washcloths.
• Toiletries, primarily shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brushes, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, lotion/moisturizer for dry skin, Tylenol.
• Warm coats - men, women, children.
• Winter boots - men, women, children.
• Warm socks - men, women, children.
• Hats, gloves - men, women, children. 
• Underwear - men, women, children.
• Bras - all sizes (new only).
• Preschool toys, educational toys, puzzles for all ages. 
• Flashlights with batteries.

“I know this list is large,” Nancy says. “Whatever we receive, we so appreciate and so do the patrons.”

There is one more thing on her list: Chocolate candy.

Simply put: “Everyone loves chocolate. It really warms the heart and puts a smile on faces.”