Needy parents can get help buying Christmas gifts for their children.
Christmas is a time for families and friends to come together and share their love and camaraderie. Unfortunately, for those struggling financially, the holidays can be a stressful time spent worrying about put gifts under the tree for their kids. Fortunately for those in need, however, there are several local and national organizations that help struggling families during the holiday season.
Toys for Tots
Led by the U.S. Marine Corps, Toys for Tots is a nationwide effort to provide toys for needy children at Christmas. The toys are collected each fall and distributed to youngsters in the same community in which they were collected. In giving out the toys, the Marines not only want to make kids happy during the holidays, but deliver a message of hope to these less-fortunate kids. Visit the Toys for Tots website to find a local drive in your area.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army, another national charitable organization, also provides needy families with the gifts they need for Christmas. Known for its famous red kettles and bell-ringing volunteers, the Salvation Army collects money each holiday season. The organization then gives this money directly to less fortunate families, allowing them to buy the gifts for their kids and ensuring the youngsters wake up on Christmas morning to the gifts they really want. Contact your local Salvation Army to find out receive benefits.
Angel Giving Tree
Needy parents can also have their children put up for "adoption" as part of the Angel Giving Tree, a joint venture of the Salvation Army and JCPenney. The program connects needy children and donors over the Internet. Donors buy the gifts from a child's wish list and then it is delivered to the family by the Salvation Army. Needy families can visit JCPenney's Angel Giving Tree website during the holiday season for details on get involved with the program.
Local Organizations
In addition to nationwide programs, local communities typically have several toy drives and other outlets for parents who need help getting their children gifts on Christmas. Since they are smaller operations, these local drives can be easier for parents to contact and work with. When looking to find groups in your area, check with local churches, schools and other organizations. City and town halls can also be good sources for parents looking to find groups in their area.
Tags: Salvation Army, Angel Giving, Angel Giving Tree, Giving Tree, holiday season, their children