A holiday wish list for at-risk kids
Tacky House Benefits At-Risk Kids
This Henrico County home, nicknamed “The Christmas House,” has raised more than $75,000 for Virginia Home for Boys and Girls (VHBG). Visitors place coins and dollars in the donation box that Frank Hudak “Mr. Christmas” has placed in his driveway at 2300 Wistar Court. On average, 22,000 visitors stop by his house each holiday season to see his decorations. This is Hudak’s 39th year greeting visitors and showcasing his tacky lights. Be sure to stop by and make a visit to “The Christmas House” part of your holiday tradition.
It’s time to lend a hand.
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls (VHBG) needs help this holiday season. The nonprofit organization in Richmond, which is a home for approximately 50 at-risk kids, is collecting gifts and donations to help teenagers struggling with mental illness, abandonment, abuse or neglect.
VHBG youth live in campus-based group homes in a family style setting to help them develop positive life skills and independent living skills. The families cook together, play games, ride bikes together, watch movies and attend community events.
“Fun family activities create a stable family environment for our youth on campus and help them with the healing process. They are kids first and foremost, and we want them to enjoy life and have gifts and outings just like kids in the community,” said Claiborne Mason, VHBG President.
VHBG is looking for donations and gifts this holiday to help the at-risk kids living on its campus on Broad Street.
VHBG’s wish list includes a DVD player, bikes, Wii and games, Xbox 360 and games and arts supplies, including scrapbooking materials. The girls living on campus would also appreciate any hair supplies, cosmetics or perfume.
VHBG is always looking for opportunities for family outings to help build healthy relationships and teach valuable life skills. The families enjoy movie passes, restaurant gift cards and tickets for activities, including ice skating, bowling and arcade games.
There are six group homes on the VHBG campus. The nonprofit is in need of kitchen supplies to help make each house on campus a home for the kids. They are looking for a dish set for 12, silverware sets, blenders, glasses, pots, pans and a grill. Cleaning supplies, twin size bedding and bath towels are also needed for the group homes.
Donations can be dropped off at VHBG’s campus in Richmond at 8716 West Broad Street. More information about its holiday wish list and its work to strengthen families is available at www.vhbg.org or by calling 804-270-6566.
