As the festive season approaches, many families face financial hardships that threaten their holiday celebrations. One such family is that of Amber, a single mother from Phoenixville, whose six-year-old daughter is eagerly anticipating a visit to Santa Claus. With a wish list that includes a Barbie doll or a dollhouse, Amber’s daughter is full of excitement, yet Amber feels the weight of her financial struggles. “It breaks my heart when I have to explain that maybe Santa can’t give everything that we all want,” Amber shared.
Amber’s financial situation has worsened since she suffered a severe leg sprain in early November, leaving her unable to work for more than two weeks. “I have not bought anything yet,” she said. “I applied for Toys for Tots and got approved for one gift, but that’s the only gift I have so far. It makes me feel like a bad parent.” With an overdue electric bill and limited funds for food, Amber prioritizes paying her rent to keep a roof over her and her daughter’s heads.
The little girl’s father is currently unemployed and unable to contribute financially. To cope, Amber has sought assistance from local resources, including a food bank in the Phoenixville area. “It makes me feel so grateful that there are still people willing to help those in need,” she noted. The news that her family has been approved to receive support through the Operation Holiday program brought her to tears. “It’s so helpful. Thank you so much, I really appreciate it,” she expressed.
Operation Holiday: A Lifeline for Families
Launched in 1991 by The Mercury in Pottstown, Operation Holiday aims to assist families facing difficulties by ensuring they have food and gifts during the holiday season. Now in its 35th year, the program has expanded its reach to serve thousands of families across Berks, Chester, and Montgomery counties. Last year, nearly $85,000 in donations enabled the program to provide gift cards to 366 children and grocery gift cards to 189 families, alongside cash donations to food pantries in the region.
This year, Operation Holiday has partnered with 21 agencies, referring 199 families with 403 children for holiday gifts and food. “There is no overhead with Operation Holiday, and all funds stay local,” said a program representative. All contributions are managed in a nonprofit foundation account, audited by volunteers from MediaNews Group.
Gift cards, provided to families for food, allow them to purchase essentials and prepare holiday meals. Local grocery store Weis Markets contributes to the program by assisting with food purchases and gift cards. For children aged 16 and under, gift cards are purchased through Boscov’s and distributed via referring agencies to allow families to select gifts of their choice.
Ways to Contribute
Operation Holiday relies solely on contributions from the community, making all donations tax-deductible. Individuals interested in supporting the initiative can make online donations through a secure portal in partnership with TriCounty Community Network at https://tcnetwork.org/. Alternatively, contributions can be mailed via checks payable to Operation Holiday at various locations, including P.O. Box 1181, Pottstown, PA 19464.
The program acknowledges all contributors by publishing their names in participating newspapers as donations are received. Donors can specify if they want their contributions to remain anonymous or if they should be made in memory or tribute to someone.
As Amber prepares for the holiday season, she hopes that her story will inspire others to support families in need. With the assistance of programs like Operation Holiday, many families will have a brighter Christmas this year.
