With Christmas just five days away, staff at A Woman’s Concern Pregnancy and Parenting Resource Center in Lancaster put their Santa hats on Dec. 21 to give gifts to families in need.
The center turned their Hope House, where families normally pick up strollers and Chicco car seats, into a drive-through toy land.
“During the beginning of the pandemic, we invited families to pick up diapers, wipes, formula and any other material assistance they needed here at the center to help them through these difficult times. Now, as Christmas nears, we hope to fill their cars with some much-needed joy this holiday season, thanks to a generous partnership with local churches, individual families, and Toys for Tots,” executive director Jill Hartman said.
With toys designated by age, Hartman and her team delivered presents via a safe, outdoor, socially-distant drive-through, complete with a volunteer Santa Claus.
The giveaway ensures families who come to the center for help know they are not alone. The stress of the season mixed with financial woes can be a lot for anyone to handle. Nonprofit organizations like A Woman’s Concern recognize this reality and do whatever they can to give aid when it is needed most.
“At this time of year, spreading joy, hope, and the spirit of giving becomes our job, and we are proud to be here for mothers and families in our area,” Hartman said.
The center provided personalized gift bags to more than 75 families on Monday and was planning to hold additional gift distributions for families who plan to pick up later this week.
“We’ll try not to turn anyone away,” Hartman said. “If a mother, father, or family needs something, we will find a way to spread some joy to their homes this Christmas.”
Thanks to the support of donors and community partners, A Woman’s Concern offers free, confidential pregnancy and parenting services to women and families in the Lancaster area. A Woman’s Concern empowers women by equipping them with tools and information to make healthy choices about pregnancy, parenting, and sexual health. Free services are available by appointment and include pregnancy testing, ultrasound scans, STD/STI testing, education and support, community referrals, and material assistance.
Visit www.PregnancyLancaster.com for more information on the work of A Woman’s Concern in the Lancaster area.
By Mary Ann Albertini, Special to The Witness
