What is Christmas in April?
Christmas in April is an annual one-day blitz to repair and rehabilitate the homes of low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners so they can live in warmth, safety, and independence. It unites people of all faiths and walks of life in an effort to assist people in need. Christmas in April started in Midland, Texas in 1973 by an oil scout named Bobby Trimble. Bobby became aware that many of his neighbors needed help maintaining their homes. Some homes needed repairs for rotting steps, while others needed leaking plumbing fixed or peeling walls painted. Bobby recruited skilled and unskilled volunteers to make the needed repairs. The project acquired the name when one beneficiary of the program exclaimed, "Why, this is like Christmas -- in April!" From those early days, the idea has spread. Christmas in April*Cecil County was incorporated in 1997. We have completed over 300 projects since then!
Why is Christmas in April needed?
For many homeowners in Cecil County, properly maintaining a home can be an impossible task. Many of our neighbors cannot provide themselves with even the basic necessities that we take for granted.
Who is eligible for Christmas in April services?
Low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners, who are not able to do the work themselves, are eligible for Christmas in April services, as well as non-profit facilities.
How are Christmas in April homes selected?
Various churches/synagogues, community organizations, and service groups refer houses to Christmas in April. Homeowners are required to fill out our application prior to us visiting. A visit is made by our House Selection Committee (made up of board members), who makes the difficult determination as to whether the house meets the eligibility criteria.
Who can volunteer for Christmas in April?
Anyone 14 years and older can be a volunteer. Before you begin work at any project, you must sign the Volunteer Form. After signing the form, you will be given a t-shirt for participating. Interested individuals and volunteers come from churches, businesses, schools, community service organizations, corporations, and associations. Volunteers do not need to be skilled at home repairs, but any skills will be well-utilized. Learn how to volunteer
Who pays for the Christmas in April repairs?
All repairs are paid for by Christmas in April. Homeowners are not expected to pay for any services provided. Each year we buy paint, nails, lumber, roofing tiles, sealant, pipes... whatever is needed to do the job. In some cases, the sponsors pays for the whole project.
Who sponsors Christmas in April?
Christmas in April receives funds from churches, businesses, corporations, foundations, service organizations and clubs, associations, and individuals. All funds received are fully tax-deductible and go directly to Christmas in April. We are a 501(c)(3) organization. Learn how to sponsor a house
