Christmas is a time of joy and giving, but it can also bring financial stress for many families. According to the American Psychological Association, around 89% of adults in the United States feel stressed during the holiday season. Thankfully, there are some things put in place to help out if you’re feeling the weight of Christmas this year. If you’re in Georgia and need assistance, several organizations and programs are dedicated to ensuring your kids have presents under the tree. Here are seven places in Georgia where you can find free Christmas gifts for your children.
1. The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program
Image Source: Pexels
The Salvation Army is a charitable organization that supports local families through various outreach programs. These initiatives include a thrift store, a food donation program, and the Christmas “Ring the Bell” program. The Salvation Army also has an Angel Tree program. It is a significant part of their Christmas efforts and allows families in need to sign up to receive gifts for their children. Someone will choose your child’s angel from a tree and buy some of the items they’re wishing for this year. Through this program, the Salvation Army spreads Christmas cheer to more than 1 million children each year.
2. Toys for Tots Georgia
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
The U.S. Marine Corps runs Toys for Tots. It’s a national program that collects unwrapped toys and distributes them to needy children around the holiday season. The program operates year-round, with local toy collection campaigns in approximately 800 communities across the United States between October and December. To date, Toys for Tots has provided 677 million toys to 301 million children.
3. United Way of Greater Atlanta
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
The United Way is a charitable organization that oversees numerous outreach programs, including several that provide Christmas assistance. They collaborate with local organizations to connect families with programs that offer free Christmas gifts and support. Some of their current Christmas programs include Christmas Angels, Merrie’s Christmas Project, and Hope for Christmas. Additionally, local United Way offices maintain a resource directory to help connect individuals with other organizations that offer Christmas assistance.
4. Atlanta Children’s Foundation
Image Source: Pexels
Atlanta Children’s Foundation is a recognizable organization in GA. The foundation aims to address the needs of and help children in the foster care system by connecting them with valuable resources in the greater Atlanta area. This charity focuses on helping children in need throughout the year and the holidays are no exception. They sometimes help with holiday gifts, ensuring every child feels the magic of Christmas.
5. Local Churches and Faith-Based Organizations
Image Source: Pexels
There is also help within your local community. If you are a member of a church or have the information for a faith-based organization, do not be afraid to reach out. Many churches host holiday toy drives or adopt-a-family programs. Some even have Angel trees during the holidays. Check with your local church for opportunities.
6. Georgia Department of Human Services
Image Source: Pexels
Don’t hesitate to utilize available government resources. Your local Department of Human Services can connect your family with holiday assistance programs in your area. Visit the office and inquire with a desk agent or caseworker for guidance. They can direct you to programs like Clark’s Christmas Kids and Light Up the Holidays.
7. Community Toy Drives and Events
Image Source: Pexels
Lastly, look to local businesses for some assistance during the holidays. From local businesses to city-sponsored events, many communities in Georgia host toy drives for families in need. Go to your city events page or utilize a resource like county Facebook groups or sites like the Macaroni Kid to find more local giveaways.
Christmas is a time for giving, but for some Georgia families, the holidays can be tough. If you need help giving your children a special Christmas, these seven Georgia programs can assist. Don’t wait – reach out early to these programs to ensure your children have a memorable holiday season.
Read More
