It may be September, but the Overlake Service League volunteers are thinking holidays and its Adopt-A-Family program.

Each year the League seeks volunteers to help provide food and gifts for needy Bellevue families during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“This is one of our most popular and rewarding programs and this year we are looking for over 300 sponsors who will adopt and bring a little happiness to some of Bellevue’s struggling families this holiday season,” said Marilyn Herzberg, coordinator of the program. “It is fun and heartwarming to know that you have bought gifts or provided food for your specific individual family.It is really a very personal experience.”

Sponsors range from individuals and families to businesses and groups, and are matched to a family that has filled out their holiday “wish list.”

“The wish lists often bring tears to your eyes because of how basic their requests are,” said Pat Patt, an Overlake Service League volunteer.“They want items such as pots and pans, warm coats, socks and underwear, linens, and toys for their children.It is really humbling,” she added.

Sponsors are able to choose the size family they would like to adopt and whether they want to sponsor a family for both Thanksgiving and Christmas or for just one of the holidays.

“Many sponsor families use this as an opportunity to teach their own children about giving back to those less fortunate,” Herzberg said.”Businesses love to adopt a family and have everyone in the office participate in the project.It creates a wonderful holiday atmosphere.”

For more information on how to adopt a family or participate in the program, call 425-451-1175.