Posted by Tena Lindenauer

happy kidsIt has been my privilege to volunteer for Jewish Family & Children's Service Center for Family Assistance (CFA). The program does so much for so many in need in our community, including children. CFA offers several programs that directly benefit children who live in poverty. This past summer, I had the opportunity to work on the Back-to-School backpack drive. Through the generosity of donors and wonderful volunteers, we were able to distribute more than 250 backpacks filled with school supplies to children from 100 communities who would otherwise not be able to afford them. It was an honor to witness the joy and appreciation expressed by these children and their families.

Now the holiday season is upon us, and we hope to spread as much joy to as many children as possible. We need your help. This year, we hope to raise enough money to delight 300 children (ages 0 -18) with gifts. We have learned that our clients appreciate $25 gift cards, because it gives them the pleasure of selecting a gift for their children. Whether you donate a gift card (preferably to Target, Toys"R"Us, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, or Best Buy) or make a monetary donation, you will make this holiday special for a child. We will make sure to deliver the gifts in plenty of time for the holidays. Our deadline for donations is Monday, November 19. Please donate today.

With your help, this holiday season will be a happy one for many children in our community! Thank you in advance from the people we serve and all of us at the Center for Family Assistance.

tena lindenauerAfter a successful career in banking and finance, Tena Lindenauer became an active volunteer at JF&CS. Since 2007, she has volunteered for several programs including the Center for Early Relationship Support and, most recently, the Center for Family Assistance, and Hunger and Nutrition Services. This year, Tena was invited to join the JF&CS Board of Advocates. In addition to her work with JF&CS, Tena is active on the board of directors of the Society of Arts and Crafts of Boston. She is the proud mom of Samantha and Sarah and lives in Weston with her husband David.