It’s been a year of challenges, for sure. If you’re looking for a way to spread some joy, this might be an opportunity for you and your department. Nebraska Medicine’s Social Work Department is once again hosting its Adopt a Family program, allowing departments to adopt a family in need for the holiday.
“The ongoing support from our employees for the families we serve here at Nebraska Medicine over the holiday season is greatly appreciated by the families,” said Cynthia Valeika, administrative assistant, social work.
Those in need range from families with several children with financial challenges and individuals who are ill and/or alone. The department has begun identifying those families in need of assistance. If your department would like to adopt a family, please complete this form by Monday, Nov. 2. This allows adequate time to match your department with a family and provide you time to prepare your donation.
This year has been even more of a struggle for many of our patients and families. In addition to COVID-19, the department has been challenged with how to continue to provide holiday assistance to patients and families.
“Many of our patients have compromised health and are limiting their exposure to people and activities,” Valeika said. “This year, we are offering holiday assistance through gift cards only. We know many of you enjoy shopping for our families, but gift cards will allow patients to shop at their preferred stores and streamline distribution of gifts, in light of many COVID-related restrictions at Nebraska Medical Center. We hope you will continue to support the program this year so we can continue to help as many families in need as possible.”
After the department receives your form, you’ll be matched with a family and provided a list of their favorite places to shop. The hope is to assign families before Thanksgiving weekend. Departments of all sizes are invited to participate.
Deadlines:
- Complete form by Monday, Nov. 2
- Deliver gift cards to Social Work office by Monday, Dec. 7, University Tower, Room 2404
- Provide a name and contact number with gift card delivery
- Contact Social Work with questions at 402-559-4420
Because contributions are given directly to families, they are not tax deductible. If you’d like to make a tax-deductible gift, checks can be made out to University of Nebraska Foundation or submitted online.
“The generosity of our employees continues to amaze me, and I extend my appreciation for your continued support,” Valeika said.