Special Kids Provides Christmas for 108 Families in Need

“The appreciation from the families is unexplainable,” shares Sydne’ Anderson, Special Kids lead family resources coordinator. “They are so grateful and relieved to have an additional burden lifted off of their shoulders, because, as we know, Christmas can be a very stressful time of the year.”

Families caring for children with special needs often face financial burdens and have difficulty affording gifts for the Christmas tree. At Special Kids, the Cornelius Christmas program allows individuals and groups from the community to give back to families who need financial support the most. This year, 108 families were served through the generosity of the local community.

“It is very rewarding for us to see the excitement from the community,” said Anderson. “It has become a tradition for our sponsors who come back year after year. It’s not just giving presents, they are giving love. We are so grateful for our communities’ involvement to make Christmas special for our wonderful families.”

The Special Kids Family Resources Department is responsible for gathering the family’s needs and matching them with a community sponsor while keeping everything confidential. Sponsors range from individuals, families, employee groups, and Sunday school classes who come together to provide for an individual family.

This year sponsors provided toys, bikes, and clothes for the children. Families were also given food, towels, shampoo, household items, coats and shoes and even gift cards for gas, groceries and haircuts to help supply their ongoing needs.

“Thank you for sharing the love of Christ with us. It means the world to our whole family,” said one anonymous recipient. “We are truly blessed by God through Special Kids. I am in tears as I see these gifts. Our biggest wish is for our children to have a good Christmas and Special Kids and the sponsors have provided that for us. We are so grateful.”