![OEC crew with a target shopping cart]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1527264577/springlakeparkschoolsorg/etmpkygxvzyvapuegw40/OEC-Adopt-A-Family-Target.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1527264577/springlakeparkschoolsorg/etmpkygxvzyvapuegw40/OEC-Adopt-A-Family-Target.jpg","width":500}])
The Opportunities in Emergency Care (OEC) program kicked off their 23rd annual Adopt-A-Family fund drive. Students in OEC are spearheading the fund drive with help from hundreds of individuals and a number of other SLPHS student organizations.
The purpose of the fund drive is to raise money to purchase Christmas gifts for needy children in the Twin Cities metro and suburbs through the Family-To-Family Network and the Alexandra House Women’s Shelter.
“This is an amazing project that significantly impacts our kids and boosts their faith in others,” said OEC instructor Bill Neiss. “The generosity of people every year with this event never fails to amaze.”
Last year, the event raised $4,377.73. Since its start in 1996, the Adopt-A-Family fund drive has raised more than $80,000 and has purchased, wrapped and delivered gifts for almost 2,000 people.
“Our financial goal for this year is to raise $4,000 and purchase gifts for 80 kids,” Neiss said.
On December 12, students will shop at the Blaine Super Target on 109th and Central. Target has already pledged to the cause. Students will meet at 3:30 p.m. to shop and then return to the high school to wrap gifts and celebrate.
If you would like to write a check to the cause, write it to the order of: OEC Foundation. In the memo, please write AAF-’18. Checks can be mailed or dropped off at Spring Lake Park High School, 1100 81st Ave NE, Spring Lake Park, MN 55432. SLP staff members can drop donations in the interoffice mail.
Students will also collect checks during advisories on Friday, December 7 and Monday, December 10.