The Season of Giving
Looking for a way to make a meaningful difference in our community this holiday season? Below is a list of current opportunities where you can make a big impact. Use the Contact Us button below to email our Special Projects Director, Lisa Higginbotham, with questions, for large group inquiries, and/or to give in other ways not listed. Call 865-546-3500
Families In Need
If you would like to bring joy to the hearts of children in families that are experiencing difficult times this year, drop off items from the list of needs at the CAC Ross Building, Homeward Bound Offices, 2247 Western Avenue
Grandparents As Parents
The Grandparents as Parents Program (GAP) provides information, support, and resources to grandparents and relative caregivers who are parenting again. GAP helps identify eligible benefits, legal support, health and mental health services, and support groups for families to navigate childcare systems with the ultimate goal of keeping families together.
Your kindness and support can make the world of difference to grand-families. Please consider being a family sponsor by making a donation or dropping off gifts at the CAC Ross Building, Office on Aging, 2247 Western Avenue, by December 1st.
Mobile Meals
CAC Mobile Meals is a community of clients, volunteers, donors, and staff brought together by the need to combat food insecurity among homebound and isolated older adults in Knox County. Daily, over 100 volunteers commit to delivering hot, nutritious meals to over 1,100 seniors who are unable to prepare meals and experience limited social contact. In addition to providing a home delivered meal, Mobile Meals volunteers offer friendly social interactions and daily safety checks that help clients continue living independently in their own homes.
While the holidays are considered a time to come together, many homebound and socially isolated older adults are unable to gather with loved ones to celebrate the season. We are accepting holiday gift bag donations from December 2-16 and recruiting volunteer groups to help organize donated gifts between December 17-20. Use the guidebook to the left to learn more and view our Suggested Gift Selections lists.
Resilient Families
Resilient Families is dedicated to helping families reach their full potential. Through support and resource connection, we help families improve their housing situation, go back to school, gain better communication / parenting skills, gain or maintain stable employment, and learn to effectively manage their finances. Our team works with families to make sure that everyone in the household has resources to thrive.
You can help spread joy and love this holiday season by donating toys for children. Your generous contribution will bring smiles to many families. Items you donate will be set up as a “shop” so children and families can shop with dignity while practicing financial skills. We ask that new items are donated and that they are not wrapped. Drop off gifts by December 16th so Santa’s elves can set up the workshop. Deliver to the CAC Ross Building, Homeward Bound Offices, 2247 Western Avenue.
Senior Angel Tree
The Knox County Senior Angel Tree helps shoppers and donors support Knox County seniors that would otherwise not have a holiday.
Donate any of the items to help support a local senior who has experienced a difficult year. We ask that new items are donated and that they are not wrapped. We’ll make sure each item makes its way intoa stocking for a senior in need.
Drop off donations to the O’Connor Center, 611 Winona Street by Tuesday, December 3rd.
Transforming Western
CAC’s Transforming Western Care Coaches work to empower and support the residents of Western Heights as they strive to improve their education, health, youth opportunities, economic stability, and food security. In addition, we help cultivate community by hosting neighborhood events.
This winter season we hope to give helpful home items to individuals and families living in public. Items can be dropped off at our Western Heights location, 1621 Jourolman Avenue.
Youth WINS
CAC Youth WINS serves unaccompanied youth ages 18-24 (including those in high school) who struggle with housing insecurities or homelessness are provided outreach and comprehensive guidance to help them access housing, education, and job resources.
Send love and holiday cheer to our local Knoxville youth by donating any of these much needed items. Please drop off your gifts to the CAC Ross Building, 2247 Western Avenue.