6 Ways You Can Help People in Need in Lawton This Holiday Season

The holidays do more than just make us appreciate family, they give us the opportunity to help people and they bring the needs of people who don't have such a bright holiday future.

Below are some ways you can help people in the Lawton area this holiday season.  I know there are more.  If you know of something not on this list -- post it below!

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army bell wringers are out in force.  Clean out your pockets, your change jar, your car and give that change that is sitting around a chance to do some good

Text for Trees

Central Mall has launched their holiday Text for Trees promotion.  Many non-profit organizations have decorated trees in the mall.  You can text a vote for your favorite.  Each organization will get $500 and the top two vote-getters will get $2,000 and $1,000 respectively.  Want to see the trees and vote now?  See the article James posted with all the pictures and codes.

New Directions Women's Shelter Christmas Drive

Christmas drive for the New Directions Women's Shelter in Lawton.  Courthouse employees are collecting items for battered women and their families.  They are looking at not only getting the usual non-perishable foods and things like toothpaste and soap but also clothing and toys for kids who might be forced to spend Christmas there.  Right now on the 3rd floor of the courthouse, you'll see two huge, empty boxes.  The county treasurer's office is looking to the people to help fill these boxes up to help women escaping domestic violence.  You can bring your donations, including cash, to the county treasurer's office on the 3rd floor of the courthouse until December 19th

Feed the Need Project

Feed The Need Project is in conjunction with the Lawton Housing Authority.  You can drop your gently-used coats and blankets off anytime at Salas Restaurant as well as all Lawton and Medicine Park Burger King Restaurants.

Adopt a Family

Adopt-A-Family with the Marie Detty Youth and Family Services has begun and will continue till December 13.  Marie Detty will be adopting 10 at-risk families for Christmas.  Food donations designated for Adopt-a-Family may be dropped off at the Lawton Christian Elementary School at Number 2 Crusader Drive west of Lawton.  Donations of food, goodies, toiletries and gifts designated for the Marie Detty Youth Shelter may also be dropped off at the Lawton Christian Elementary School.  Items always needed and appreciated are hats, gloves, toiletries, hoodies, lounge pants, slippers and socks.

Heating Assistance

DHS will start taking applications on December 10th for heating assistance for needy families.  Eligibility for the program is based on each household's income and assets.  Residents should apply at the local DHS office.