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1. What is Rubye's Kids?
Rubye's Kids is a grassroots group of people who are committed to enriching lives and bringing joy to often forgotten, needy children from inner city Philadelphia. Our mission is to further the social, emotional, and educational welfare of underprivileged children.
2. Who is Rubye?
Rubye Caesar was a North Philadelphia mother who was very active in her community, and for many years made sure that the children in her neighborhood had a celebration at holiday time. She was a humble woman of integrity, compassion and understanding. She was always willing to help others in need. In the early days of the Holiday Party there were no hundreds of volunteers, just family with Rubye at the helm, serving the neighborhood children. Although it was chaotic, she managed to get everything together from food to toys, and hats and gloves. The children left with a feeling that they were loved and cared about.
Rubye Caesar made an impact on everyone who came in contact with her. She died in February 1995, but her loving, giving spirit lives on. Rubye's Kids Holiday Party was named in her honor.
3. How long has Rubye's Kids been in existence?
Fifteen years and counting.
4. Is there only one annual event?
No. The organization began with our Annual Holiday Party the second Saturday in December. It has grown to include birthday celebrations and Reading Corner Dedications for children living in shelters, a Children's Music Festival, Rubye's Kids Closet that provides school supplies, backpacks and uniforms for underprivileged children. Our vision is ever expanding and we are currently working to create libraries in shelters. We are always open to new possibilities.
5. How do you select the children that attend the holiday party?
The children are selected from one of nine Philadelphia public schools, or one of three homeless shelters. The school children are chosen based on need by the principals, teachers and counselors.
6. How many children are invited to the holiday party?
500 children.
7. What are the ages of the children that attend the party?
Six, seven and eight years old.
8. How do the children get to the party?
Rubye's Kids, Inc. provides buses that transport the children to and from their school or shelter.
9. How frequently do you have parties in homeless shelters?
10 times per year.
10. How do I get on a volunteer list?
Click on our volunteer link and fill out the form for an upcoming event.
11. How can I help Rubye's Kids?
Volunteer for events, donate items (i.e.: birthday gifts, school supplies, school uniforms, toothpaste etc.), or make a financial contribution. You can do all of these from our donation form.
12. What does Rubye's Kids need the most?
Volunteers and financial contributions.
13. What should I know as a potential volunteer?
Volunteers cannot bring their own young children to any Rubye's Kids events. Volunteers must come at the start of the event and stay until it is finished and cleaned up - there are no exceptions to this rule. Volunteers must be age 16 and over. Required dress attire for volunteers includes: white shirt, black or khaki pants, and sneakers.
14. What does it mean to be a publicly known Rubye's Kids Supporter?
Your name could be used on the website or promotional items for Rubye's Kids. Your name would appear as you have written it on the donation form, and can be changed by sending an e-mail to rubyeskids@aol.com.
15. What items do Rubye's Kids need?
Many items are accepted and all are appreciated! Common items include such things as - socks, underwear, school supplies, toiletries, books, winter accessories, and toys.