UPDATE: As the holiday season approaches, Whitney, a single mother of four, is facing significant challenges just as she finishes her last semester in criminal justice at Montgomery Community College. With Christmas only weeks away, she finds herself financially strained after taking a leave from her job as a personal care worker to focus on her studies.
Despite her hard work and determination, Whitney, 33, struggles to provide a festive Christmas for her children aged 5 to 11. “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 shared. With no assistance from their father or family, Whitney has been relying on her community for support.
Whitney’s journey hasn’t been easy. She has worked tirelessly to expunge her criminal record from juvenile offenses, removed her children from an abusive environment, and faced the scars of past trauma. “I’ve done a lot on my own,” she stated. “But now I need some help and support. And I’m finding out that there are really good people out there who care about others.”
Fortunately, Whitney is receiving assistance from Orion Communities, a nonprofit based in Phoenixville. Orion has provided her with gift cards to help ensure her family has food and presents this Christmas. “The generosity of others is a beautiful thing,” she emphasized, expressing hope to pay it forward in the future.
This urgent need for assistance is underscored by the launch of Operation Holiday, now in its 35th year, aimed at helping families like Whitney’s during tough times. Founded at The Mercury in Pottstown, the program ensures that families in need across Berks, Chester, and Montgomery Counties receive necessary support, including food and gifts during the holiday season.
Last year, Operation Holiday raised nearly $85,000, benefitting 366 children with gift cards and 189 families with grocery cards. This year, the program has partnered with 21 local agencies, already referring 199 families with 403 children for essential gifts and food. The organization maintains zero overhead, ensuring all funds directly support local families.
Gift cards for food purchases are provided to families, allowing them to buy holiday meal essentials and pantry staples. In partnership with Weis Markets, Operation Holiday facilitates these purchases, while gifts for children under 16 are sourced through Boscov’s.
As the community rallies for support, donations are crucial. Contributions can be made online via the TriCounty Community Network secure portal or mailed directly to various local addresses. All donations are tax-deductible, and contributors will be acknowledged in participating newspapers unless designated as anonymous.
As Whitney prepares for a challenging holiday season, the ongoing support through Operation Holiday highlights the collective effort of the community to uplift families in need. “I’ve been blessed with assistance, and I hope to return that kindness in the future,” she remarked, embodying the spirit of resilience and gratitude this holiday season.
Stay tuned for updates as Operation Holiday continues to make a significant impact in the community, bringing hope and joy to families facing adversity during these trying times.
