Goodfellow Fund increases gift, hopes to help more children. Here’s how to donate

For more than 100 years, the Star-Telegram’s Goodfellow Fund has helped Tarrant County needy schoolchildren. And this year, the kids will be getting more from the holiday charity.

When the charity began in 1912, less fortunate families received food and firewood. This year, Goodfellows will deliver $100 Old Navy gift cards, up from $50 in years past.

“This is going to be huge for the underserved families in Tarrant County,” said Richard Greene, the executive director of the Goodfellow Fund. “I can’t wait to be a part of the campaign this season and see the joy and appreciation on the faces of our applicants.”

The charity hopes to help 15,000 children, up from 10,200 a year ago.

The Goodfellow Fund couldn’t do it without its donors and volunteers. The Exchange Club of Fort Worth historically leads the way. Last year members gave $529,150 during their holiday luncheon.

“I’d want to thank area charitable foundations, civic clubs, neighborhood associations, churches and social service agencies and our entire community that continue the 112-year legacy in supporting the Goodfellow Fund with thousands of donations,” Greene said.

More than 100 trained volunteers will spend thousands of hours conducting interviews with families to verify their eligibilty.

The Goodfellow Fund has seen an increase in applicants from the Middle East and needs Arabic speaking volunteers. Volunteer information can be found at goodfellowfundfw.com.

Qualifying interviews are conducted through Dec. 5 in Fort Worth and Arlington.

Donations can be made through the Goodfellow Fund website or mailed to: The Goodfellow Fund, P.O. Box 149, Fort Worth, TX 76101.