This time of year, we are thankful for so many things. Our health, a roof over our heads, families, friends, job. So many things to be grateful for, but for some this time of year is hard and they are not able to provide Christmas for their families. Let alone putting food on the table during their children’s school break.
Every year my church provides Christmas to families in need within the community. My mom and I oversee this fellowship and it is a long, but fun process. We start by delivering Christmas Assistance forms to the three different schools within the community. The forms are given to the families that are in need. These forms provide an idea what the children want for Christmas, their sizes for clothes and favorite color. We than disperse the completed forms to three churches and different organizations within the community. (we are a small community, so this is a big deal).
While the families that we received are “adopted” and those who shop become Santa for these boys and girls by providing their toys and clothes, a second group at my church goes to Walmart and picks up the food that the establishment donates each year.
The families are given food for the duration of their child’s Christmas break, a Christmas meal (which includes a ham), snacks (what child doesn’t like little Debbie cakes?), and many other delectable and healthy foods.
On distribution day, the gifts are tucked in bags with tags, bows and many surprises. The food is sacked and ready to be picked up. Once the families arrive we meet with each and while their cars and trucks are being packed up the families can look through the gently used clothes and toys that are donated(all free). Before leaving we pray with the families hoping for a bright and happy new year.
Tomorrow, December 15 marks 15 years that my family and I have helped with this cause. Without the families within each church and those within the community we wouldn’t be able to do what we do and be able to provide for these families in need.
Being able to spread joy and some Christmas magic is a blessing. Having the means to surprise a child with their top toy on their small list is amazing. Knowing that when that child opens that gift they are going to be so excited and overjoyed! I often wish I could be a fly on the wall on Christmas morning while the children open their gifts. Be able to see the pure joy on those children’s faces when they know that Santa had been there and provided what he or she asked for.
Since we started aiding this fellowship, my mom has always told my twin brother and I “This could be anyone tomorrow. Even our own family. One hospital bill could put families in this situation.” One just never knows what the next day will bring. In helping with this it really makes your apricate what you have.
This year we helped roughly 80 families—100 children with Christmas and spread some Christmas joy.
Merry Christmas everyone and a happy new year! I hope to spread more awareness to different organizations, provide insight into different distractions and activities in the up and coming year.
***Remember it isn’t what we receive or even what we give, but about the birth of Christ and how he saved all of us.
Until Next Time!
peacehopeandplaysite 