Are you looking for a fun shopping event that allows you to buy gifts for friends and family AND pay it forward at the same time? On Sunday, November 20 the Congregational United Church of Christ (1511 Nicolet Blvd - Neenah) is hosting an Alternative Christmas market from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Shoppers will have an opportunity to get a head start on their Christmas shopping and support a number of worthy causes at the same time.

You will have the opportunity to buy ‘alternative gifts’- i.e. symbolic gifts, which benefit local and international charities and self-help organizations such as farm animals from Heifer International, or health or business support materials from Church World Service to benefit individuals in developing countries. On a local level, donors can provide building supplies for the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate, counseling services at the local Samaritan Counseling center, the services of LEAVEN for struggling families, or items which struggling families will receive from the Neenah Menasha Emergency Society. You’ll receive attractive gift cards to give to your friends and family members to tell them of the gift that you are giving in their honor.

If you’d like an actual gift to wrap, a large selection of international and USA fair trade handicrafts and other very attractive merchandise will be available for you to take home on Market day.

Additionally, beverages and the “Famous Congo UCC homemade donuts” will be served fresh out of the oven with coffee or juice, and these fresh-out-of-the-oven treats will also be available for take-out while supplies last.

Please Note: This is not a fund-raiser for the church. All proceeds will go to local or international charities.