Local Nonprofits Unite to Spread Holiday Cheer for Families in Need

In Frederick County, local nonprofits are coming together to ensure that families in need experience the joy of Christmas this year. Led by Paul Foss, CEO of Waterboyz for Jesus, these organizations are coordinating efforts to provide essential support and gifts to families who might otherwise go without during the holiday season.

Key Takeaways

Event: Christmas Alive hosted by Waterboyz for Jesus
Date: Annual event on Saturday
Participants: Approximately 250 families sponsored this year
Collaboration: Multiple nonprofits working together to avoid duplication of services

The Christmas Alive Event

Waterboyz for Jesus is set to host its annual Christmas Alive event, where sponsors will gather at the Restoration Church to collect toiletries, food, and gifts for families in need. This initiative not only provides material support but also fosters relationships between sponsors and families, creating a network of support.

When Christmas Alive began nearly 20 years ago, it served just 13 families. This year, the need has surged, with around 250 families being sponsored as of early December. Foss noted, "There’s unprecedented need this year. It seems like we say that every year, but this year in particular."

Coordination Among Nonprofits

To maximize the impact of their efforts, the Salvation Army of Frederick County is acting as a central hub, coordinating with various nonprofits to ensure that families receive assistance from only one program. This approach prevents overlap and allows more families to benefit from the available resources.

Other programs contributing to the holiday support include:

Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program
Frederick Rescue Mission’s Toy Drive and Family Adoption Programs
Seton Center’s Holiday Helping Hands Program

By streamlining the process, these organizations can serve more families effectively, ensuring that resources are distributed fairly.

Addressing Increased Demand

The growing demand for assistance has prompted many organizations to adapt their strategies. While some, like Beyond Shelter Frederick, have scaled back their Christmas programs to focus on emergency services, others are stepping up to fill the gap. Nick Brown, executive director of Beyond Shelter, explained that the decision was made to prioritize their core mission, stating, "There’s definitely ample opportunities for folks to receive assistance outside of our organization."

Foss expressed surprise at Beyond Shelter’s decision but recognized the opportunity for Waterboyz for Jesus to expand its reach. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among nonprofits, stating, "Each year, we get better at it, and I think we’re moving towards the right kind of goal."

Conclusion

As the holiday season approaches, the collective efforts of local nonprofits in Frederick County highlight the spirit of community and generosity. By working together, these organizations are not only providing essential support to families in need but also fostering connections that can lead to lasting relationships and support networks. The Christmas Alive event is a testament to the power of collaboration in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.