Holiday Giving Tree for Families

Alrighty, folks. It's been a tough year for many. I'll argue, though, that it's been the toughest for most of the folks on my shopping list for this weekend: 45 families, the majority of whom are first-generation Americans, immigrants, or refugees living at or below the poverty line in our South Nashville community.

These 45 families courageously signed up for holiday gift assitance, even amidst the unfortuante stigma that attaches itself to those brave enough to reach out to their fellow humans for help.

This is NOT a pity plea for these families; rather, this is a call to action to share a kind gesture - in the form of a small gift - to say "We LOVE you. We BELIEVE in you. We SUPPORT you. We VALUE you. You are NOT lesser than. We are your allies."

These are families JUST LIKE yours and mine: They love their kids and they want to see them happy. Who wouldn't wish for that? In fact, many of our kiddos and their caretakers unselfishly asked for the basics: grocery store gift cards and warm winter coats topped the wish lists. As one parent wrote: "Worry about the kids. That's ALL I wish for."

While we've done  a lot in our Glencliff Neighborhood community to raise funds + purchase gifts for 45 families in need, there's still about 75 kiddos and caretakers left to cover. (Thanks to all who have pitched in so far!) And it's CRUNCH TIME, since gifts are due on Monday! :)

All monies received will go to the store with me this weekend to buy presents for our families in need.

If you share your name, we'll be sure to contact you to send a personalized thank-you gift in the mail - if you wish.

This is all about showing folks of all creeds how much we understand that we all share the most basic of human desires: love and acceptance.

At $10 per person, we'd need $750; hence, the goal listed. Can we make it happn in 48 hours?! I have NO doubt. Let's do this!

Thanks for considering, planetary neighbors.

Hugs always ,
Jill