While the economy has pushed up prices on almost everything in 2022, the public was even more generous with Give A Christmas 2022 than last year, increasing their donations to help nearly 500 needy families give their children have happier holidays.
This time almost 80 thousand dollars were distributed.
And it’s not too early to donate for 2023, as donations received since Christmas will be used in the 2023 program, which is co-sponsored by the Burlington County Times and nonprofit New Jersey 211 (NJ 211). A renewed campaign for the more than 50-year-old fundraising program will formally launch in mid-fall.
The co-authors verified that 497 low- and moderate-income families with children age 17 and younger received a total of 1,586 Amazon e-gift cards worth $50 per child up to four children, plus a $50 card for one parent in the family. with less than four children.
The gifts were made from both $66,947 in new donations received between October 31 and December 25, and more than $12,000 in donations received after the 2021 campaign ends. The total was $79,300.
“Even though inflation has driven the cost of basic goods higher than ever before, New Jersey is still one of the wealthiest states in the US…and it seems we’re one of the most generous, too. Despite the belt- Tightening that many families have had to do this year, donations to the Give A Christmas program are up 10 percent this year,” said Kevin Donahue, NJ211 Chief Operating Officer.
“This means there will be more toys for more needy children on Christmas morning. To everyone who donated, I really can’t thank you enough. Give A Christmas has had a long history of success and we at NJ211 are excited to be a part of it. “
Recipient Cheri Brown of Beverly, a disabled mother of five children ranging from toddlers to a 13-year-old teenage daughter, said she received gift certificates again this year and used them to buy more games, toys, pajamas and other essentials for their children. .
“My children were so happy. They just love board games. They had a family feud this year, and they’re still playing the Monopoly they used to play,” said Brown, who explained that she is on Social Security Disability Income, has difficulty standing and walking, and lives in low-income housing. and says that the father of her four children does not pay child support.
Here are some of the other appreciative comments sent by the families of NJ 211 recipients, although their names are being withheld for privacy reasons:
- “Thank you for blessing my family this Christmas!” written by Jocelyn M.
- “I don’t know how I got this, but I want to thank whoever made this possible! It will really help make my daughter’s (and best friend’s) Christmas a little more special! With tears in my eyes, I am so grateful and hope your vacation will be great!” Brenda S. said in a thank you note.
- “Thank you for Amazon.com Gift card! My family and I really appreciate it. Merry Christmas.” by Melanie B.
Donors, whose charitable contributions ranged from a few dollars to several thousand dollars, also expressed their comments.
One anonymous family, which traditionally gave $10,000 a year, increased their donation to $20,000, saying it was given in memory of a loved one who contributed annually but recently died.
“Remember the poor,” was a note written by a donor, while an anonymous donor from Edgewater Park commented, “This is my first donation. I know it’s hard out there now. Every little bit helps (the needy).”
Since the program began in 1968, more than $3 million has been donated to many thousands of families. The 2021 campaign raised about $60,000 and distributed it to 330 eligible families.
more:Could Burlington County be getting a permanent new homeless shelter?
Audrey Harvin, executive editor of the Burlington County Times, also expressed her “heartfelt thanks” to all readers who contributed to the 2022 Christmas program.
“I’ve been a part of this program for decades, and I’ve never been disappointed by the generosity of our readers. Despite the tough economic climate that has affected most of us over the past few years, it’s great to see people still caring and want to help,” she explained. “I would also like to thank the people behind the scenes who make this program a success every year. They don’t do it for the awards, but they deserve to be recognized for their hard work. work and dedication to help these families celebrate the holidays.” . For more information about Give A Christmas, including how to donate, visit burlingtoncountytimes.com/GiveAChristmas
For questions about the program, contact County Times Executive Editor Audrey Harvin at aharvin@gannett.com
Carol Comegno enjoys telling stories about South Jersey life, history and military veterans for the Courier Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. If you have a story to share, please call her at 609-533-0306 or email ccomegno@gannettnj.com.
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