Kids Get a Bit of Christmas Early Thanks to Nonprofit Group

Employees and volunteers from Together We Cope got to play the role of Santa early this year, handing out donated Christmas gifts last week to families in need as part of the nonprofit's Adopt a Child program.

READ: Together We Cope Provides Christmas for Needy Kids

This year, . People and organizations have "adopted" these kids, donating gifts that Together We Cope gathered together in gift bags.

Although the program is officially over for the year, Together We Cope is still accepting donations for children who weren't sponsored. Donors can find out what is needed by calling 708-633-5040, and more information can be found on the nonprofit group's website.

Donations are especially needed for teens. Suggested items include:

• Personal care products
• wallets
• scarves
• makeup kits
• jewelry
• CDs
• iTunes gift cards
• gift cards for fast food restaurants.

This video is from Thursday, Dec. 13, and it features Together We Cope volunteers and employees: Tina Kessens, client service coordinator; Kaitlin Aldworth, a case manager; Mary Nolan, a volunteer; and Kerry Nolan, fundraising assistant and Mary's daughter.

Together We Cope serves the townships of Bremen, Orland, Palos and Worth, including the communities of Alsip, Chicago Ridge, Crestwood, Evergreen Park, Hickory Hills, Hometown, Merrionette Park, Midlothian, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Orland Hills, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Posen, Robbins, Tinley Park and Worth, and portions of Blue Island, Bridfeview, Country Club Hills, Homewood, and Markham.