Spirit of the Season

By Felicia Carter

The Christmas season is a time for peace, joy, and celebration. However, for some families in Appalachia struggling to keep food on the table, clothes on the backs of their children, and utility and rent bills paid, the Christmas season can become a very stressful time. Money to purchase even modest gifts or prepare a family holiday meal is a luxury not afforded to many in Eastern Kentucky who are already forced to make difficult decisions regarding their basic needs.

The Christmas Basket Program provides Christmas gifts, such as clothing, toiletries, toys, games, and books. This program was established by Reverend Beiting in 1967 for families who were struggling to pay bills. He wanted to make sure that the families could have a Christmas and have money for other necessities as well. The program has been operating successfully ever since, connecting generous donors across the United States and Canada to hundreds of families in Appalachia each year. The generous spirit of these donors allows participants to provide Christmas gifts for their families.

Just as is true in any program, changes must occur in order for the program to progress. Many changes have been implemented with the Christmas Basket program as well, making the process of giving and receiving a bit more seamless.

“The biggest change, which I’m really excited about, is the new referral process,” Jenny King noted, “The participants are referred either from school, church, or another agency, or from within CAP.” In the past, there was a sign placed outside and families could walk in at their convenience. The staff realized that this was not the most equitable or efficient practice because there were some families who were not aware of the program. With the new referral system, the Family Advocacy program is able to more strategically match the needs of families with the generosity of donors. When the families come to collect their gifts, they are encouraged to bring a canned food item, or to donate an hour of their time to help. This type of reciprocity allows families the opportunity to express their gratitude and to experience the joy of giving. The families are also encouraged to write a thank-you letter to their sponsor. They are always more than happy to do so. As one participant stated, “I wish we could invite every sponsor to our house for dinner. This would not be possible without their love and kindness. We are truly blessed.” Some of the donors to this program have been giving for over 20 years, and it has become a holiday tradition for many families.

This year in the Cumberland Valley region, the program was expanded to include a Christmas store. This new distribution model allows participants to shop for whatever they may need, making it possible for them to choose their own presents for children and spouses. Shopping in the Christmas Store can be a very empowering experience for participants who have traditionally not had to the chance to select personal gifts for family members. This may seem like a minor change, but it further reinforces the notion that families have the power to make their own choices. The selection of gifts, from racks of new clothing to toys and appliances, is provided by donors from all over the United States.

The Christian Appalachian Project Christmas Basket program continues to work hard to ensure that struggling families in Eastern Kentucky get to experience the spirit of the season.