People may apply at the following times:

• Nov. 8-10, 9-11:45 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.
• Nov. 12, 1-4 p.m.
• Nov. 15-Nov. 19, 9-11:45 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

Officials will consider emergency situations after Nov. 19, but they will limit those cases to unforseen problems, such as loss of a job or a fire.

Volunteers are needed to take applications for all days, particularly the last day, which is likely the busiest.

The following organizations have allowed their employees to volunteer:HeadStart, Rowan Partnership for Children, Rowan Information and Referral, Salvation Army, Kiwanis Club, Livingstone College and Catawba College.

The Rowan County Cooperative Extension Service will provide snacks for volunteers every day, and Cheerwine will donate beverages. Chick-Fil-A on Innes Street has agreed to feed people Nov. 8, and Harris Teeter will provide that service Nov. 15.

Organizers still need businesses to provide lunch for volunteers on other days.

The Christmas Bureau is funded this year by a United Way Family Life Grant.

Other participating agencies are The West Rowan Christmas Store and HeadStart. The Rowan County Department of Social Services will administer funds generated through the Salisbury Post Christmas Happiness Fund.

WorkFirst recipients need not apply for Christmas assistance through the Rowan Christmas Bureau because Social Services will issue vouchers to them through the mail.