Our Children’s Christmas Programs has been a continuing legacy of providing hope and joy to local families since its inception in 1952. This year, we held our annual distribution event from December 11th through December 15th where individuals were able to self-select gifts for their kids. Children received a game, toy, art supplies, a hat and gloves, socks, and a book, among other gifts.
We continued to serve a handful of families after the official distribution dates, and in the end, 1,997 children, representing nearly 1,000 families, were able to experience the joys of Christmas.
This event is heavily supported by the community, with 131 volunteers contributing over 575 hours between setting up the room, and distributing the gifts. Besides the great volunteer support, the community also gave generously to support the program and local families. Overall, the program was supported by over 200 donors and the Keith Johnston Memorial Fund at the Fremont Area Community Foundation, making total contributions nearing $35,000.
“I think it is 100% important, especially for single-moms and children that are less fortunate,” says Children’s Christmas Programs participant and mother of three, Stephanie, about the impact the program has had on her and her family. “I’m not having to worry about having Christmas for my kids.”
Hundreds of families just like Stephanie’s were able to celebrate the season without added worries, thanks to the support from the community, local organizations, and volunteers.