UPDATE: As Christmas approaches, single mother Whitney is urgently seeking help to provide for her four children amid financial struggles. After taking a leave from her job as a personal care worker to focus on her studies at Montgomery Community College, Whitney is determined to give her family a joyful holiday despite the challenges.
Whitney, 33, is in her final semester studying criminal justice but faces significant financial strain. “I know that my degree will lead to a good career down the road, but right now we are really struggling to make ends meet,” she said. Her children, aged 5 to 11, rely on her to create a festive atmosphere this Christmas.
Despite her personal challenges, including overcoming a troubled past and an abusive household, Whitney remains focused on her education and the well-being of her children. She has found support from Orion Communities, a nonprofit in Phoenixville, which has provided her with essential gift cards for food and holiday gifts. “The generosity of others is a beautiful thing,” she expressed, highlighting the community’s compassion during tough times.
This year marks the 35th anniversary of Operation Holiday, a charitable initiative started in 1991 to assist families in need during the holiday season. The program aims to ensure that families have meals and gifts on Christmas morning, and it has expanded its reach across Berks, Chester, and Montgomery Counties.
Last year, Operation Holiday distributed nearly $85,000 in donations, which helped provide gift cards to 366 children and grocery gift cards to 189 families. This year, 199 families with 403 children have been referred to the program by 21 partnering agencies, ensuring that local families receive the support they desperately need.
Operation Holiday operates with no overhead costs, meaning all contributions directly benefit the families served. Donations are collected in a nonprofit foundation account, managed by volunteer staff from MediaNews Group. Gift cards for food purchases are provided to families, allowing them to buy holiday essentials and gifts of their choosing through partnerships with local businesses like Weis Markets and Boscov’s.
For those looking to support families like Whitney’s this holiday season, donations can be made online through a secure portal with TriCounty Community Network or sent via mail to designated addresses. All contributions are tax-deductible, and donors can choose to remain anonymous if desired.
As Whitney navigates these challenges, she reflects on her journey and the importance of community support. “I’ve done a lot on my own, but now I need some help,” she stated. Her story is a poignant reminder of the human impact behind charity initiatives like Operation Holiday, which continues to uplift families in need during this critical time of year.
As the holiday approaches, community members are encouraged to contribute to ensure that every child has a gift to open and every family has a meal during this festive season.
