As the festive season approaches, many families face financial challenges, including single mother Amber, who is struggling to fulfill her six-year-old daughter’s Christmas wishes. With a limited budget, Amber worries that her little girl might not receive the gifts she hopes for, such as a Barbie doll or a dollhouse. “It breaks my heart when I have to explain that maybe Santa can’t give everything we want,” she shared.
Amber’s financial difficulties intensified after a severe leg sprain in early November left her unable to work for more than two weeks. “Being out of work has really set me back,” she said, noting that her bills are piling up, with an overdue electric bill causing her significant concern. “I’m trying to get money for that instead of buying Christmas presents,” Amber stated. She remains hopeful for a paycheck before Christmas, allowing her to better manage her financial situation.
Her daughter’s father is currently unemployed and unable to provide financial assistance. In addition to seeking help from the local Toys for Tots program, which approved one gift for her daughter, Amber has also turned to a food bank in the Phoenixville area. “It makes me feel grateful that there are people out there willing to help those in need,” she reflected.
When Amber learned that her family would benefit from the Operation Holiday program this year, she expressed deep appreciation. “It’s so helpful. Thank you so much, I really appreciate it,” she said, emphasizing the importance of community support during this time of year.
Operation Holiday: A Lifeline for Families
Founded in 1991 at The Mercury in Pottstown, Operation Holiday aims to assist families experiencing hardship by ensuring they have food on the table and gifts under the tree during the holidays. Now in its 35th year, the program has expanded its reach across Berks, Chester, and Montgomery counties, serving thousands of families each year.
Last year, Operation Holiday received nearly $85,000 in donations, which funded gift cards for 366 children and grocery gift cards for 189 families. The program ensures that all funds raised remain local and are managed by volunteers from MediaNews Group. This year, Operation Holiday has partnered with 21 agencies in the tri-county area, referring 199 families and covering 403 children in need.
Gift cards for grocery stores allow families to purchase food for holiday meals, while children under 16 receive the opportunity to select their gifts through collaboration with local retailers like Boscov’s. Notably, Operation Holiday exclusively accepts families referred by recognized agencies, ensuring that the support reaches those who need it most.
How to Contribute
Operation Holiday relies entirely on community donations, with contributions being tax-deductible. Readers can support the initiative by donating online through a secure portal with the TriCounty Community Network, or by mailing checks to designated addresses. Transparency is a priority, as the names of contributors are published in local newspapers as donations are received.
Amber’s story highlights the profound impact of community assistance during the holiday season. As she prepares for Christmas, she hopes her experience will inspire others to support children in need. “I just want to help those who can give,” she affirmed.
As families like Amber’s receive support from programs like Operation Holiday, they can find some relief during what can be a challenging time of year.
