Dec 12, 2023 By Katherine Mansfield 2 min read

Blueprints is seeking sponsors to make this holiday season a very merry one indeed.

For about 15 years, the local nonprofit has hosted Blueprints Christmas, an adopt-a-family program that pairs generous community sponsors to families in need, to provide those families with a holiday they’ll never forget.

“The holidays are a source of great anxiety for lower income families,” said Jeff Fondelier, vice president of operations for Blueprints. “We all want to give our children a fabulous holiday, but for people living on a low income, who struggle to meet even their basic needs throughout the year, they just can’t do it.”

That’s where Blueprints Christmas comes in. Families in need submit to Blueprints a Christmas wish list, sponsors shop and deliver packages to those families, and, each year, between 600 and 700 children from 250 to 300 local families unwrap presents on Christmas day.

Fondelier said those involved with Blueprints Christmas make this time of a year joyous for the nonprofit’s families. Over the years, Interiors by Seashal, EQT, CNX, TC Open and Stein Wealth Advisors, along with individuals throughout Washington and Greene counties, have financially supported Blueprints Christmas.

Seashal Belldina and Shauna Clarke have coordinated Blueprints Christmas efforts for the last decade, increasing the program’s reach. This year, however, sponsorship numbers are down, Fondelier said, and nearly 25 local families remain unsponsored.

Blueprints needs a few more generous donors to commit to making Christmas merry and bright for families still awaiting sponsorship. Those interested in spreading Christmas cheer are welcome to email info@myblueprints.org to be connected with a family in need.

For more information on Blueprints, visit https://myblueprints.org/.