Christmas always seems to be experienced best through the priceless reaction of children. Their eyes twinkle, their faces light up, and their excitement and joy contain a pureness many adults have long forgotten. Through children, we can see the magic of Christmas! So, imagine if you had nothing to give. Imagine if you could barely provide food and clothing and there was nothing more for your kids. We are so thankful at HVAF to provide holiday outreach to the veterans and their families we serve!

Our donors generously gave this year to 42 needy families and 358 individuals of which 187 were veterans; over 100 more lives impacted than in 2021! This program provides more than gifts, it creates magic and lasting memories!

I was able to deliver gifts to two families this year and involve my own daughters in the process.

The first family was staying in a hotel temporarily and had already been given a huge blessing. They would be moving into a home soon! While this was wonderful news, when we brought the presents to the hotel room, this Army veteran’s three children squealed in delight at seeing all the gifts! Her therapy dog also danced around from all the excitement.

The scene was pandemonium! The case manager provided some special hair accessories for the girls and the youngest daughter, 4 years old, ran to me and squeezed me tight saying, “Thank you.” Before I left, I was blessed with a second hug!

The second family I delivered gifts to provided me the opportunity to involve my own daughters, ages 12 and 18. We were able to shop for this family and afterwards my daughters wrapped their gifts. When I delivered the presents, two little boys greeted me at the door. One little guy, eating a banana, informed me he was “just chillin’” when I asked how he was. I chuckled as he lost his cool when he saw the gifts! After the experience, my daughters both agreed this Christmas was extra special because we were able to help this family. There is no doubt we will be adopting a family next year!

Thank you all who adopted a family, gave financially, or provided for our pantry this holiday season. Thank you for creating a little magic this Christmas for those who needed it most!

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