Christmas Wishes & Back to School Readiness
Seasonal Programs
Christmas Wishes Program
Each year, community partners reach out through Operation Love Ministries help make Christmas bright! You can help make Christmas a time of celebration and wonder for struggling children, families, and singles. Over 250 families and 600 children will receive a Christmas basket of food and basic needs items, gifts for each child, winter essentials such as coats, hats, scarves and gloves, and a Bible if desired.
Clients Receive
- Christmas meal box for singles or families
- Toys for any children
- Basic essentials as available (shoes, coats, hats, gloves, soap, etc)
- Full family sponsorship available for those with critical needs and emergency situations
Registrations by appointment Mon, Tues, Thurs in October
No-Charge Shopping Experience in early December
Need Help?
PLEASE NOTE: ONLINE REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.
Operation Love Ministries typically does on-site registrations at East Side Church of God, 2600 E 5th Street during the first full week of November from 9 a.m.-11L30 a.m. and 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. to register remaining families.
Families must have their photo ID and proof of each child and child’s DOB (birth certificate, school registration, doctor paperwork, etc.) for on-site registration.
Each October, families can get help by filling out an online application or registering in person (open until full). For those who want to be sponsored, families may get a call for more information.
EVERY registered family with proper ID is guaranteed either sponsorship OR a no-charge “holiday shopping” experience in December!
Families shop through available toys, gifts, and stocking stuffers for each as well as other basic needs like new blankets, coats, shoes, and clothing for their families. In addition, all registered families, with our without children, receive a Christmas basket with holiday meal items and some basic essentials such as dish soap and toilet paper.
Families experiencing a one-time emergency and have not been “sponsored” previously may register for sponsorship. Thus, those with the highest needs can be considered for sponsorship by area businesses, small groups, or individuals. Best of all, these sponsors may not only provide gifts but also any urgent supplies such as diapers, clothing, or even Christmas trees if needed.
Together, we can help make the holiday season bright. We are privileged to work alongside our community and build long lasting relationships with families as we walk alongside them through emergency situations, cycles of poverty, and financial difficulties.
Back to School Readiness Program
- Backpacks for children in need
- Items matched to the need for each child, given the school supply list provided
- Special clothing pantry shopping experience for back-to-school clothes
- Partnerships with several area organizations to provide supplies and/or backpacks to pre-qualified participants
Registrations by appointment Mon, Tues, Thurs in Jun/July
Community Distribution in July/August
