What is the Hope For Christmas program?

I want to explain a little bit more about the #hopeforchristmas family support Christmas program that I'm organizing again (year 4). I am taking requests from families who are hard workers who are not able to/ didn't access other supports this holiday season and have unexpectedly found themselves in a tough place financially this year. This could be due to job loss, illness, domestic situations, homelessness and other unforeseen and short term issues. I ask them to fill out a form to explain their situation and identify different things about their child. I try to then communicate throughout the choosing process so they can help pick what their child would love the most (they do know their child best). When I deliver the gifts to the family, they are unwrapped and come with wrapping paper and tape (if needed), as I want the parents to be as involved in the process as possible. The gifts will also include family activities (games, crafts, food activities, etc) that encourage making memories rather than stuff The idea is to get parents interacting and involved in the lives of their children as much as possible and is a FOCUS of this year. The gifts also often include food and clothes, which are much needed (as I'm seeing the requests come in). I’m seeing a new focus on bedding (and pillow) requests this year. Please let me know if you have questions or are willing to donate or sponsor a child or family. I have many families/ children available and I get new requests for help daily.

Here is the amazon wish list link. The items are shipped right to my house. www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/C2C0PLK0D8JO... I also have venmo @Emily-Wachter-10 And PayPal ewachter3@gmail.com In case anyone wants to donate that way.