Holiday Gift Program Distributes Gifts to 850 Adults & Children

During December, 295 families participated in our annual Holiday Gift Program (over 850 adults and children) and received gifts generously supplied by strangers they've never met.

The gifts are items that they themselves asked for and that donors thoughtfully picked out based on information provided by each survivor such as sizes, favorite colors, and hobbies. For REACH Beyond Domestic Violence staff and volunteers, it is a wonderful few weeks of organizing and distributing the gifts. To wrap up the program, a Holiday Party, generously hosted by our friends at Vistaprint with catering donated by Blue Ribbon BBQ, was attended by 265 guests and volunteers, including 130 children. The party provides a joyous opportunity for survivors to gather and celebrate the holiday season. Survivors, REACH staff, and volunteers alike look forward to this party every year.

All of this would not be possible without the kindness of REACH donors (200 donors this year represent over 1,000 individuals) and volunteers who do so much to brighten the holiday season. It is said best by Deborah Heimel, REACH’s Associate Executive Director; “At REACH, we believe change is possible. By participating in the Holiday Gift Program, you have impacted the lives of so many and by doing so, you have changed my life. During a season that can bring on many emotions – both joyful and challenging – you bring me hope. Thank you to the entire REACH community. Thank you for your generosity and thoughtfulness towards the hundreds of families who received gifts and for reminding me that all of this kindness and love is around us every day of the year.”

If you are interested in contributing to the Annual Holiday Gift Program next year please contact Deborah Heimel, at Deb@reachma.org.

Everyone at REACH Beyond Domestic Violence wishes you and your family a Happy and Healthy New Year.

REACH (Refuge, Education, Advocacy and Change) Beyond Domestic Violence works with survivors of domestic violence to foster safety and support while engaging communities to promote healthy relationships. For more information about programs and services provided by REACH visit: www.reachma.org