COMPASSION
Christian Appalachian Project’s Christmas Basket Program By Carol Stringer
... They set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:9-11 (NRSV)
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he Christmas season is upon us, and like the magi who set out to bring gifts and blessings to a child in a far off land, we are fortunate to recognize the benevolence of donors who share their gifts with families in Appalachia. Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) is surrounded by a multitude of individuals, families, and partners who tirelessly and thanklessly give to people in need though their time, gifts, prayers, and money. CAP and the people of Eastern Kentucky are constantly blessed by the generosity of strangers from afar, and never more so than during the season of Christmas.
CAP’s Christmas Basket Program creates an opportunity for families, individuals, and groups to sponsor a family and provide them with the toys,
clothes, and other gifts they could otherwise not afford for Christmas. This program has inspired dedicated supporters from all over the United States since the 1970s and has become a Christmas tradition for many of CAP’s donors. Some of these donors send gifts in the mail; others volunteer their time to help assemble and distribute Christmas baskets here in Appalachia. While each story is unique, all reflect the joy received from shopping for others to help create a special Christmas for people in need. Many donors love shopping for the specific items that a family wants or needs. Carla Liverman, of Danville, Ky., says that her favorite memory of giving is of the year she sponsored a family who was interested in the outdoors. “I enjoyed purchasing all the camping accessories and items they needed, including sleeping bags for the kids, a tent, and cookware. I could practically taste the s’mores!”
“I’ve received far more joy from hunting for the presents for the family I sponsored than I would have gotten from receiving presents myself.” In addition to purchasing the items for Christmas baskets, the Kidd family from New Jersey traveled to Kentucky to assist with the distribution of the Christmas boxes. Ms. Kidd was touched by the happy faces of participants and observed the dedication of the staff. She knew that her giving had made a significant impact as she witnessed the joy of her efforts. Ms. McGrath, of Maryland, says, “I have a healthy family and they have everything they could possibly need, so how could we not give to people who are less financially secure?” Ms. McGrath shares a theme common amongst all CHRISTIANAPP.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2015
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