Hundreds of low-income families in Habersham got a helping hand to make Christmas special this year for their children.
The Habersham Kiwanis’ Toys for Kids program distributed toys, bicycles, books, and clothes to families who qualified for assistance through the local school system and relief services.
Approximately 450 children will be able to have toys on Christmas morning thanks to this event, says Habersham Schools Social Worker Kathleen Clement.
“We had wonderful donations this year from Habersham Schools students and staff, Georgia Power, Juan Paramo with Paramo Mechanical, Dollar General, Tony Cook, Brand Names for Less Auction, as well as many other community businesses and individuals,” Clement says. “We were able to give away a record number of bicycles and toys due to the generous donations.”
Nellie Snyder has chaired the club’s Toys for Kids project for 29 years.
“Each year we are grateful for the generosity of many local businesses and individuals. Without that, the success of our project could not be possible.”
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One of the many nice things about the Toys for Kids program is it allows parents to ‘shop’ for their children, rather than just being gifted blind, age-appropriate gifts. This gives parents input into what their children receive and makes it more likely their kids will find presents they want under the tree.
Dozens of volunteers from inside and out of the Habersham Kiwanis Club and school system dedicate their time and resources throughout the year preparing for each Christmas giveaway. It’s a lot of work, but Snyder says it’s worth it.
“I continue working with this project because I just enjoy it, and I love to see happy children at Christmas!”
Clement wraps that sentiment with the ultimate bow, “We are blessed to live in such a giving community!”
