As we stride into this holiday season, Washington University Medical Center Redevelopment Corporation’s Holiday Outreach Program is once again gearing up to unite our community in providing vital assistance to those in need. Since its inception in 1998, this program has brought people together to ensure a brighter holiday for all members of our community. Over the past 25 years, it has become a vital pillar of support across the nine neighborhoods in WUMCRC’s service area. The program also provides an opportunity for Washington University and BJC staff to give back, with 26 departments participating and contributing to the cause in 2023.
Last year, the program was a tremendous success, raising over $57,000 to support community members in need. These donations provided families not only with essential groceries and funds but also with gifts to celebrate the holiday. Each contribution brought joy to children and a sense of relief to parents, allowing them to create cherished holiday memories even amidst challenging times.
Unfortunately, as the cost of living continues to rise we anticipate a great need for assistance in our local neighborhoods this holiday season. While last year’s achievement of over $57,000 in donations was truly incredible, this year, we hope to raise even more. Surpassing that mark would enable us to expand our reach and support even more community members, which is certainly a goal of ours given the challenges of the current economic climate.
As the holiday season draws near, we are presented with a great opportunity to pause, reflect, and if possible, extend a hand to those facing significant challenges within our own community. It’s easy for us to become preoccupied with daily concerns, but it can be very humbling to consider the realities some of our neighbors are confronting: a family struggling to cover their heating bill, a senior citizen forced to choose between medication and food, or a mother unsure how she’ll put food on the table, let alone provide a memorable holiday for her children. These moments of reflection can remind us of the difference we are able to make, even in small ways, during this season of giving.
How Can You Help?
We are proud to provide 100% of every gift to assist families, individuals, and seniors who are in need. This year we will be contributing the following:
If you would like to make a donation, please follow the link below: