Later this month, more than 130 of our community’s homeless will gather at the Bethesda Center for the Homeless for a warm meal, festive entertainment, and lots of holiday cheer.

The center’s annual Christmas party is a much-anticipated bright spot for its clients, says board member Martha Linnell, who serves as “traffic controller” for the event. “What I love about the party is that it truly brings the community together,” she explains. “Businesses, churches, individuals — everyone unites for a good cause.”

Possibly one of the biggest highlights, though, is that at the end of the evening, party-goers leave with gift bags filled with items donated during Bethesda’s White Christmas event the week before. “We pack them with the things we take for granted — items you need to support a family,” Linnell says.

Like many organizations, the Bethesda Center’s needs are especially great this year. Donations such as towels, soap, socks, tissues, sheets, laundry detergent, and shampoo will be collected December 12 from 9 a.m. to noon at the center.

If everyone gives just a little bit, it truly makes a difference, Linnell adds. “I’m sorry that we have such a large need in our community, but since we do, I’m happy to be associated with such an important organization.” 

For information about the Bethesda Center, go to bethesdacenter.org