‘Helping Hands for the Holidays’ program providing needy families with joy

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. – It’s the season of giving and Worcester County Gold is looking to do just that by bringing back its ‘Helping Hands for the Holidays’ program.

The goal is to collect gift donations for local children, seniors, and adults with developmental disabilities.

Gift donations can include toys $50 and under.

Community partners can submit referrals that are then matched with a recipient.

The Executive Director Nicholas Cranford tells us they’ve already received requests for over 500 children and 50 vulnerable adults.

He says the need will be greater this year, as families are faced with record-inflation and managing basic needs like rent and utilities. “With families really putting a focus on basic needs like that, often times holiday gifts can fall to the bottom of the list of priorities, and we’re really excited to have the opportunity to relieve that burden on families,” Cranford said.

“Especially when you come from a home where this might be the only hoodie you get all year or the only coat you get all year. Even if you’re a teen, these gifts have a really big impact.”

The time period for submitting requests for eligible families has closed, but the non-profit is still accepting toy donations through December 9th.

Monetary donations are accepted year-round.

To do so, click here