We closed 2018 by blessing thousands of individuals across the U.S. through our holiday outreaches.
In Houston, we hosted our annual Toy Store, but also donated some of the toys and Somebody Cares bears to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for their annual toy delivery to specially selected families.
One of those families has four children, including a baby that was born last summer and barely survived due to breathing complications. Because of traveling weekly for the baby’s treatments, the dad has been unable to begin his new job and medical expenses are piling up. But when a crew of deputies arrived bearing gifts for the children to open—and more for the parents to give them on Christmas day—their joy in the season was restored! Long-time friend and HCSO volunteer Vickie Guillory connected the family to HCSO and was able lead the deputies in prayer for them before they left.
Somebody Cares St. Augustine held their seventh Coats 4 Kids drive for homeless and disadvantaged students in the St. Johns County School District. During the month of November, ove 500 coats were collected at 16 churches throughout the county. On December 14, the coats were given to the children, along with socks and underwear. “Coats 4 Kids 2018 was truly an example of what happens when divine resources meet human needs through loving channels,” said SCSTA on their website.
Somebody Cares New England, in collaboration with Toys for Tots and area churches, businesses and individual donors, was able to bless over 250 children with multiple Christmas gifts! From the grandma caring for her grandchildren to the young mom escaping abuse, the working dad trying to provide for his family, the mom newly diagnosed with cancer, and the single mom desperate to provide gifts for her child on Christmas day, one theme was the same throughout the day….gratitude! “Not only were the parents and guardians grateful for the gifts,” said SCNE’s Lori Jane Simmer, “but the volunteers were grateful for an opportunity to serve families in their community.” SCNE also provided 250 turkeys and 250 hams over the holidays to families in need, along with bags of groceries.
Other Christmas outreaches included the Annual Code Blue banquet for the homeless with SC Baltimore; free hot cocoa from SC Humble at their community Christmas parade; the SC San Antonio Kids Christmas Party and grocery give-away; and a Community Dinner for 300 guests hosted by SC Denver.
Our Rise to the Time Center in Denison, Texas, partnered with a local church to furnish Christmas gifts for 21 children, ages 2 to 17. On Saturday before Christmas, RTTT hosted the children and their families at a special party for them, with refreshments and crafts. “It was lots of fun as each child opened their gifts,” said RTTT co-director Vickie Gaskins.
Thanks to each of you who support the work of SCA, our chapters, and our centers. As always, each location went the extra mile to be a tangible expression of Jesus to their communities—something they do not only at Christmas, but throughout the entire year!