The weather may say otherwise, but here at Greer Relief it’s basically Christmas already! We’ve been hard at work updating our Christmas giving program. We are happy to unveil the, “Christmas Morning Shoppe”. Though the name has changed, our goal remains the same: to provide neighbors in need with Christmas gifts for their family under the tree. In turn, this prevents them from either spending their limited resources on gifts, or going without completely.
As we continue to strive toward giving our neighbors a hand up and not a hand out, our processes have evolved to reflect that. As in years past, each family we serve through the Christmas Morning Shoppe will be a family that has received assistance from Greer Relief or Greer Community Ministries over the past year.
However, instead of providing gifts based on a wish list that comes packaged and ready to go, we are shifting the joy and sense of accomplishment to the parents or guardians. Greer Relief believes the empowerment and dignity that comes with the ability to shop for your own child is a step toward self-sufficiency.
So what does this mean for Christmas Sponsors? In the past we have given each sponsor the wish lists of specific children and families. This year we will be providing general lists of popular toys and needed items for children. While the gifts will still be going to children and families in need, Greer Relief humbly asks that donors and community supporters provide gifts to our program as a whole, not individual families.
There are many ways you as a corporation, church, school, club, family or individual can help Greer Relief spread Christmas cheer to neighbors in need this holiday season. Here are a few opportunities available (You can choose more than one!):
- Purchase toys or hold a toy drive—we can provide a list for guidance
- Make a monetary donation—Greer Relief can purchase needed items
- Donate gift wrapping supplies—there will be a gift wrapping station
- Volunteer—Be an elf in the Christmas Morning Shoppe!
Greer Relief would be unable to provide Christmas assistance without the continued support of our neighbors. We know this year will be an adjustment for those we serve, our sponsors, and for us at Greer Relief. With your help, we hope to make this a smooth, exciting, and ultimately empowering transition.
If you have any questions about the changes being made to our program or about how you can help, please call or email Sheena Greene. (864) 334-3492 / sheena.greene@greerrelief.org