In the spirit of holiday gift giving, Hearst ES and Sidwell Friends invite families to share with our neighbors in need. We will be conducting a toy and clothing drive for three weeks to support needy families in the DC metropolitan area.  Donations will be delivered by parent volunteers from both schools to local agencies with whom Sidwell has had long-term partnerships and Hearst hopes to develop: Martha’s Table, Samaritans Inn, and Bethesda Cares. In addition, this year we would like to give to the Humane Society as well, so that we can include animals in the group of recipients with whom we share the holiday spirit - children (Martha's Table), families (Samaritans Inn), the homeless (Bethesda Cares), and animals (Humane Society).  

We are looking for the following items: 
 
Martha's Table - new unwrapped toys, games, books 
Bethesda Cares - new unwrapped long underwear, socks, gloves, hats, scarves 
Humane Society - clean used or new blankets and towels (with no holes please) 
 
In addition we are helping to "adopt" families through Samaritans Inn. We have a list of families and their wish lists, and if you are interested in participating, please contact Bill Kerlina at 202-282-0106 or email William_Kerlina@dc.gov . It is not necessary to fill a family's wish list all yourself - you and a friend or friends or neighbors can "adopt" together.  
 
Any and all gifts will be greatly appreciated. Please drop off new, unwrapped gifts in the collection boxes located in the main office between Monday, November 30^th and Friday, December 18^th. If you have any questions or are interested in lending a hand, please contact Joyce Walker or Bill Kerlina at 202-282-0106. Let’s work together to make this the best holiday season for our friends and family throughout the DC metropolitan area. Thank you in advance for your generosity!