To Whom Much is Given Much is Expected

Until becoming a member of Twelve day of Christmas a year ago, I can honestly say that I'd never witnessed first hand the impact of donor contributions. It is truly inspiring to work with an organization so deeply aligned with the "real" needs of our community.

After joining I was assigned a family that I would work with for the entire year, a single mother raising two sons. Utilizing funds raised at events such as this one, I would facilitate needed assistance to soften the blow of poverty many of our neighbors experience.

Upon receiving contact information on my family, I immediately attempted to reach the mother, but to avail, my calls were unanswered. Becoming concerned I made one last attempt and a friend of the mother answered. She explained that she was sitting at the bedside of the mother in the hospital. The doctors had just left her room and were recommending hospice care. My hands shook as I looked at the information on her application, she was only 30. She explained that hospice would set up at her brother's home and I should reach out to him. I did, only to find out that he had no idea how he'd care for her and the boys, he just knew he had to figure it out.

The mother passed away a few weeks later and per her request, the brother was given custody of her two sons. I worked closely with him to provide for the boys: food, clothing, school supplies for their new school, anything we could do to make their transition easier. His gratitude was evident in the tears I saw each time we met.

At Christmas I asked the chapter to add the brothers family as I could no longer only provide for the boys, this was impacting the brother and his family as well. So we took in 4 more and provided Christmas dinner and gifts for all of the children. What a joy to see the look in the kids eyes as I delivered beautifully wrapped gifts to place under their Christmas tree.

For Easter I delivered easter baskets with books and treats, along with a gift card to purchase easter dinner. In August we spent the day together shopping for school clothing, they'd already received all of their school supplies at our Christmas in July event. The kids were thrilled knowing they'd show up on the first day prepared and looking their best.

This is only one example of the families we help. There are so many more stories. Your donation allows us to make a huge impact on these families, demonstrating humanity at every opportunity.

Even if you can't attend the tea, please donate. Any amount is appreciated.

Jennifer