WARSAW — The upcoming holidays can be an exciting time, but for many they are a struggle. Some find it difficult to afford gifts after paying necessary expenses like rent and basic groceries. Others cannot afford even that.

With this in mind, area organizations are offering ways for local families to enjoy the coming holidays.

Combined Community Services

• Combined Community Services is making plans for its annual toy consignment sale and giveaway. Those wishing to help out now can go through and choose gently used toys to consign. Toys not sold are donated to the toy giveaway, along with new toys purchased with funds from the sale. This gives parents a chance to choose new and used gifts for their children who may not otherwise receive gifts at Christmas.

• CCS’s annual adopt a family is currently full and, according to Lisenbee-Wright, will remain closed until the 148 families already on the list are “adopted.” She called on members of the community to consider adopting a local family in need by picking a list off of a tree and shopping for that family. Names of families are kept confidential.

Salvation Army

• The Salvation Army, Warsaw, has an Angel Tree program to provide food and gifts to local families in need. Those who wish to be placed on the tree must be Kosciusko County residents and must bring a photo ID, a utility bill showing their address, proof of income and identification for each child living in the home. Signups are on now through Friday, Nov. 20.

Our Father’s House

• Signups for Thanksgiving baskets through Our Father’s House are on until Wednesday, Nov. 18. Those wising to receive a basket need to apply in person.
• Also at Thanksgiving, Our Father’s House will have a coat rack in its dining room and will give away coats to whoever needs one for this winter.
• Signups for the Christmas basket and HUGS programs will begin in December. Christmas baskets include a meat and sides for a Christmas dinner. HUGS provides warm items like hats, underwear, gloves and socks for parents to give their kids as gifts. Signup dates will be announced soon.