This year, 34 families from Forest Park Southeast and Botanical Heights were recipients of the Washington University Medical Center (WUMC) Holiday Outreach program.  Each family was matched with a department from the  Washington University School of Medicine.  The departments  donated food, clothing, toys for children, household items and utility assistance.  This annual program provides a boost to area families during an important time of the year.

The annual Holiday Outreach Program allows WUMC to connect area individuals and families with other support services available in the area.  WUMC, through its Washington University Medical Center Redevelopment Corporation (WUMCRC), sponsors an employment training, placement and retention program in partnership with MERS-Goodwill. Individuals and families participating in this year’s Holiday Outreach Program have an opportunity to also participate in the employment program.

This year’s program was a tremendous success.  In addition to the many clothes, toys and household gifts, school of medicine employees donated over $6500 in cash to assist with utilities.  Brooks Goedeker, Community Development Manager, has been heading up the program for the last six years.  He stated:

“The Holiday Outreach program grows every year.  During my first year, we had 18 families, this year it grew to 34 families.  I’m always amazed at the generosity of the School of Medicine staff and employees.”

This year, WUMCRC staff delivered the gifts to the individuals and families on December 22nd and 23rd.  Planning is already underway for 2011.  Stay tuned to wumcrc.com for future announcements.

Happy Holidays from the staff of WUMCRC!