Goodfellow Fund hopes to help 16,000 schoolchildren this holiday season
Christmas in the Fort Worth area has, since 1912, given big folks a chance to help little folks. The charity that started out providing food and firewood to less fortunate families evolved into a program that now provides new clothes for the holiday season.
Last year, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Goodfellow Fund provided gift cards for 8,000 needy Tarrant County school children.
The Exchange Club of Fort Worth historically leads the way, and last year was no exception. The Exchange Club members at their annual holiday luncheon provided a gift of $425,000.00.
The Goodfellow Fund couldn’t do it without its donors and volunteers.
“I’d want to thank area charitable foundations, civic clubs, neighborhood associations, churches and social service agencies and our entire community that continue the 110-year legacy in supporting the Goodfellow Fund with thousands of donations,” said Richard Greene, the executive director of the Goodfellow Fund.
More than 100 trained volunteers contribute thousands of hours conducting interviews with each family to ensure the family is qualified.
The Goodfellow Fund has seen an increase in applicants from the Middle East and needs Arabic-speaking volunteers.
Volunteer information can be found goodfellowfundfw.com.
Qualifying interviews are conducted in Fort Worth and Arlington through Dec. 7.
Applicants will receive Old Navy Store gift cards to buy clothes and shoes for their children.
Some wrap the treasures and put them under trees so the kids have presents to open Christmas morning. Many others let the children wear their new clothes to school as soon as they’re purchased.
How to donate
Since 1912, the Star-Telegram’s Goodfellow Fund has provided practical gifts for schoolchildren. You can join this tradition by sending a contribution to Goodfellows, PO Box 149, Fort Worth, TX 76101. Or visit GoodFellowFundFW.com and make a secure credit card donation.
