Michigan briefcase: Families supported

For three struggling metro Detroit families experiencing the loss of a parent, Christmas was brighter thanks to Art Van Furniture.

Gifts were given to the families, but not all were wrapped in pretty paper. New furniture and a year’s worth of groceries, rent and utilities also were presented.

“The holidays are supposed to be about joy,” said Art Van Elslander, chairman and founder of Art Van Furniture. “If I can put a smile on their faces, it warms my heart.”

The Extreme Christmas Makeover was organized by Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids. Art Van Furniture is matching donations to the foundation up to $25,000.

Warren-based Art Van Furniture is a longtime contributor to Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids. To learn how you can participate in upcoming charitable programs, go to ENDCEwww.artvan.com.

Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing guidance, stability and financial assistance to families with children who have suddenly lost one or both parents. For more information, go to www.forthekidsfoundation.org.

http://www.freep.com/article/20091227/BUSINESS06/912270460/1002/business