For Utahns who have delayed until now, gift packages can still arrive by Christmas if sent priority or express mail.
Priority mail packages arrive at 51 major cities in two days and at most other cities in three days. The cost for up to two pounds is $2.90; three pounds, $4.10; four pounds, $4.65; and five pounds, $5.45. For packages over five pounds, the rate varies with the destination, says Salt Lake Postmaster Ralph J. Hamilton.To ensure delivery by Christmas, Hamilton advises sending anything mailed after Monday by express mail. Bad weather can close airports and halt highway transportation.
Letters and packages sent by express mail are delivered overnight to most major U.S. cities. The cost for packages weighing up to a half pound is $9.95; up to two pounds can be sent for $13.95. Post offices can provide costs for other weights.
Express mail letter and packages are delivered seven days a week, 52 weeks a year.
International express mail delivers packages to people living overseas in about three days.
You still can adopt
a family for Christmas
Hundreds of low-income Utah families have been "adopted" for Christmas through the Deseret News Sub for Santa program. But a few remain. And in the week before Christmas several families are usually turned back in because sponsors find they have less time than they thought they did to do shopping.
Sponsors can be individuals or groups who are willing to provide a few Christmas gifts for the children in a needy family. The program gives information about the ages of the children, along with suggestions from the parents. Sponsors are asked to contact the adults to find out what the children need and make arrangements to deliver the items.
Some families may also need help with food for a holiday meal. All families have been screened to verify need and to eliminate duplication.
If you'd like to adopt a family, call 565-4751.