Several weekends ago I was part of a great tradition here in the Oklahoma City area, The Christmas Connection Christmas Event. Helping decorate the event in the theme of "Twas the Night Before Christmas" was my contribution. I wanted to share these photos from the event and a little about the great work the Charity does for those in need. If you find yourself wanting to contribute or help in any way, please click on the links and you will be directed to their website.
In 1981, a group of tireless community leaders set out with a plan to help families in need at Christmas time by providing a department store setting where they could “shop” for free gifts. With an abandoned warehouse, used clothing and house wares from their friends and a small amount of cash to purchase new toys, socks and underwear, they gave 363 families happy Christmas memories.
Nearly 30 years later, what started as a seasonal charity has developed into a vital service agency that provides support throughout the year. With the help of the community, the Christmas Connection provided necessities to over 7,700 children, adults and seniors in 2008.
Beyond our signature program, Christmas Shopping Days, the Christmas Connection offers programs throughout the year including school supplies and uniforms, clothing and crisis relief shopping programs.
The Christmas Connection is modeled after a department store allowing the families we serve the dignity to “shop” for items that fit their own unique taste. Instead of being given a hand out, the Christmas Connection strives to provide a little bit of normalcy in the lives of families who are otherwise facing difficult, stressful situations.
Unlike resale organizations like thrift stores, our products are never sold. If we can not use the items or have a surplus of items, we pass them along to other nonprofit organizations.
In 2007, the Christmas Connection completed the Oklahoma Standards for Excellence, an ethics & accountability program for the nonprofit sector.
The Christmas Connection relies on the generosity of the community and receives no state, federal or United Way funding. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible. If you would like to donate items or make a financial contribution, click here.
I would also like to thank the Art Department at Hobby Lobby Corp. for the use of several of the pieces in the above photos. I appreciate you all for sharing your talents. Bobbie
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