America’s Christian Credit Union (ACCU) is proud to partner with three local charities this holiday season to make spirits bright. The three charities selected this year include the Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services, McKinley Children’s Center (MCC) and Shepherd’s Pantry. Each of these organizations works diligently to provide those who are hurting a sense of hope, especially during the holiday season.
The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is a government agency that serves at-risk and foster children. The DCFS invited donations of toys and gifts in its annual Toy Drive for foster kids. The McKinley Children’s Center, a San Dimas non-profit that supports orphans and foster kids, also requested help to fulfill Christmas wishes from children in their program, called Toys for Joys. ACCU employees and members rallied to the cause, generously donating over 80 gifts in total for children who may not have otherwise received anything this season.
Shepherd’s Pantry, a Glendora non-profit, helps underserved families by donating home essentials such as food and clothing to alleviate need and fight poverty in the local community. ACCU submitted a generous sponsorship check in support of Shepherd Pantry’s November 18 fundraising dinner, and continues to raise funds each month through employee payroll contributions and a company match. The total monthly contribution averages a bit over $400. Shepherd’s Pantry Executive Director Craig Cerro said, “We continue to value our longstanding partnership with ACCU. Thank you for your recent gifts of support. Providing hope along with food helps these families find their way in a difficult world.”
The credit union, too, has been blessed by its partnerships with these great community organizations. ACCU President/CEO Mendell L. Thompson commented, “We are truly grateful to be able to come alongside these organizations in providing manpower, clothing, and funds as we are able. We pray that we are able to continue being an advocate and resource in support of the great work that they provide to needy families and struggling children. How wonderful that these families will see many of their needs met and will be able to experience the true Christmas spirit -- the spirit of hope we have in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We take these opportunities of giving and serving with great joy, striving to emulate Jesus’ outstretched hand as we continue to reach, serve, and teach.”