For the third year RAMP (Rochester Area Music Project) has partnered with Henderson Ford and other businesses to provide toys and gift items to the under-resourced in the city of Rochester. The gifts go to the Furnished 4 Life Christmas Store and the Marines Toys for Tots.
Why the Furnished 4 Life Christmas Store is so different is because gifts are picked out by the parents! For example, a doll that might cost $35 in the store, would sell for about $5-7. This brings dignity to the process. Imagine yourself in their shoes. A parent sits by and watches while strangers bring gifts to their kids. How would you feel inside? This alternative allows parents to choose Christmas gifts for their children, giving both dignity and hope to the families. We think this effort could be cultivated in many hurting areas of the city and we’re pleased to have our students and staff contribute to this effort.