Frequently Asked Questions
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 to rotting steps, while others need leaking plumbing fixed or painting. 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. To date, we have completed 212 projects.
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. Last April, we were able to complete twenty-eight (28) projects. We built ramps, repaired or replaced plumbing, installed carpet and tile, did yard work, installed smoke detectors, and left energy efficient light bulbs for our homeowners. We also painted homes -- inside and out, replaced faulty locks, and did roofing projects.
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 make the difficult determination as to whether the house meets the eligibility criteria.
Who can volunteer for Christmas in April?
Anyone fourteen (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. Volunteers come from churches, businesses, schools, community service organizations, corporations, associations and interested individuals. Volunteers do not need to be skilled at home repairs, but any skills will be well-utilized.
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.
Mark your calendars...
This year's workday is Saturday, April 28, 2012!
