Adopt a family helps hundreds of Eastern Iowa families in need

Hundreds of Eastern Iowa families are struggling just to get by right now. All those extra holiday expenses can make stressful bills climb even higher. Now, the Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) is asking to reach out to help families in need.

More than 250 Eastern Iowa families are waiting to be adopted right now. When you adopt a family, you buy them a food basket and a few gifts. It may be the only gifts the families receive this holiday season.

Jennifer Barnett is a single mom trying to balance her budget while she raises her children.

“The holidays really hit us because I don't have a lot of money,” Barnett said.

She struggles to get them the gifts they want.

“They want games. The kids want expensive games. But, you can't always buy ‘em because we can't always afford them,” Barnett said.

The Barnetts are in luck because they're one of 200 families already adopted for the holidays.

“It's always disheartening to see so many people in need,” Adopt A Family spokesperson Jennifer Schulte said.

Unlike previous years, nearly half of the applicants have jobs, but they still can't afford extra holiday expenses.

“People want to work. They want to get out there and provide for their families. They're taking those first steps toward financial stability. Next year, maybe they'll be able to provide a whole Christmas for their family,” Schulte said.

Barnett wishes she didn't have to reach out for help, but will use the experience to teach her children.

“I try to teach them how to do something else for someone else. I try to teach them how to return a good deed,” Barnett said.

It's a lesson far more valuable than any gift they could ever receive. If you'd like to adopt an Eastern Iowa family, call 319.393.7811.