Helping the next guy this holiday season

Community spirit is alive and well year round in Wellington, but during the holiday season it is especially evident as neighbors go out of their way to make sure that no one gets left out of the celebrations.

The Wellington Food Bank distributes at 2 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. In early November they served 83 families. On Nov. 26, turkeys were given out along with the regular food distribution. Thanks to the help of a couple dozen volunteers, the distribution process is usually completed in less than an hour.

“We couldn’t do it without all the help we get from the community,” food bank director Mark Gabbert said. “We get help in the form of money, labor and in-kind donations from the schools, Boy Scouts, 4-H, the town board and individuals. 4-H recently presented us with a check for $1,000.”

Because the fourth Tuesday in December falls on Christmas Eve, the only food distribution in December this year will take place on Dec. 17. Anyone interested is welcome to show up. If possible, bring proof of residency and an income statement. Food is distributed from Wellington Community Church, 8445 Third St.

Harvest Farm based north of Wellington at 4240 E. County Road 66 is providing turkeys in addition to their food boxes on Mondays from 9:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. On Saturdays they distribute food from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Distribution of turkeys will continue for as long as they are available.

Angels Among Us is a program of the Salvation Army that provides Christmas food boxes, clothing and toys for families in need in Fort Collins, LaPorte and Wellington. Walk in at 3901 S. Mason St., Fort Collins on Mondays or Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to sign up.

Programs such as Santa Cops, Adopt-a-Family at Timberline Church, Gift of a Green Christmas-NOCO Shares, Fort Collins Rescue Mission and Catholic Charities are also available to residents of Wellington and the surrounding area.