Volunteers Bring Holiday Joy to 2,300 Kids in Ulster County
URGENT UPDATE: Volunteers at People’s Place in Kingston, NY are spreading holiday cheer to over 2,300 children this season through their impactful initiatives. As the community focuses on festive celebrations, these dedicated individuals are ensuring that families in Ulster County feel the warmth of the holidays.
With the holiday season in full swing, People’s Place has ramped up its efforts, executing special programs like Project Santa and Bag Holiday Hunger. Executive Director Christine Hein confirmed that the agency provided essential services, including food distribution and toy deliveries, to those in need, making this festive time brighter for many.
“We have put in an enormous amount of volunteer hours leading up to the holidays,” Hein stated in a recent interview. “The café was open on Thanksgiving for brunch, and we handed out meals.” She highlighted that the organization served over 900 households through their Bag Holiday Hunger program, which offers food bags to families with children from pre-K to 18 years old.
The Project Santa program has been particularly successful, delivering packages filled with toys, board games, books, and winter clothing to children aged newborn to 16. Hein believes this year’s efforts reached more than 2,300 kids, showcasing the community’s commitment to helping those in need.
To support these initiatives, volunteers from the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, Kingston Kiwanis Club, and various local businesses have stepped up. “Normally, People’s Place operates at about 93% volunteer-driven capacity, but during the holidays, that figure jumps to around 97%,” Hein explained. “Volunteers are critical to our operations.”
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. “The vast majority of people express gratitude, and many are deeply appreciative, saying things like, ‘You’ve made my child have a happy Christmas,’” Hein shared. This heartfelt feedback reinforces the importance of community support during this time.
Hein also emphasized the need for ongoing volunteer efforts beyond the holiday season. “While people are generous in November and December, it’s crucial to remember that assistance is needed year-round. Many individuals continue to struggle in January, February, and March,” she urged.
For those looking to contribute, People’s Place invites locals to volunteer and help sustain their initiatives throughout the year. To learn more about holiday programs or how to get involved, visit peoplesplace.org.
This urgent call for action highlights the essential role that community organizations play during the holidays and the importance of volunteerism in making a real difference in people’s lives. Share this story to inspire others to join the cause!
