Families Thrive with Support from Operation Holiday Initiative

In a heartfelt effort to support families struggling during the holiday season, the Operation Holiday initiative has been making a significant impact in communities across Berks, Chester, and Montgomery counties. This program aims to ensure that families can provide both food and gifts for their children during a time that can be especially challenging for those facing financial hardships.

Mateo and Rosalia, a local family, exemplify the struggles many encounter. Mateo works long shifts, clocking in at 12 hours a day, while Rosalia manages their home and cares for their infant and toddler. Their two older children require additional support, as both have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Rosalia explains, “We are a one-income household because it makes more sense for us financially if I stay at home with the children.”

Despite Mateo’s steady employment, the family faces financial difficulties. “We rely heavily on food pantries to keep us fed,” Rosalia shared. She emphasized the critical importance of food security, stating, “Making sure they have full tummies is more important than keeping the lights on or paying the rent.” The family receives assistance from Helping Harvest, an organization that provided over $20 million in food to nearly 110,000 individuals last year.

The need for support is echoed by Rosalia, who urges others in similar situations to seek help. “I know there are people who are scared to be labeled as lazy if they ask for help but it should never be like that,” she said. “Feeding people is always OK. And we have no idea what other people may be going through.”

Operation Holiday’s Community Impact

Founded in 1991 by The Mercury newspaper in Pottstown, Operation Holiday has a mission to ensure families can provide a festive experience for their children during the holidays. Now in its 35th year, the initiative has served thousands of families and has expanded its reach to include readers of several local publications.

Last year, Operation Holiday raised nearly $85,000, which provided grocery gift cards to 189 families and gift cards to 366 children. This year’s program has partnered with 21 agencies in the tri-county area, referring 199 families with 403 children for assistance with gifts and food.

A significant aspect of Operation Holiday is that all funds raised remain local, with no overhead costs. The contributions are collected and audited through a nonprofit foundation account, managed by volunteers from MediaNews Group. Families receive gift cards for food, enabling them to purchase holiday dinner items and pantry staples.

Partnerships with local businesses, including Weis Markets, enhance the program’s capacity to assist families. Gift cards for children aged 16 and younger are purchased through Boscov’s and distributed via the referring agencies, allowing families the freedom to choose gifts for their children.

How to Contribute to Operation Holiday

Operation Holiday relies solely on reader contributions to fund its initiatives. All donations are tax-deductible, and individuals can make secure online donations through the TriCounty Community Network. Contributions can also be mailed to various locations, including P.O. Box 1181, Pottstown PA 19464, and other addresses associated with participating newspapers.

As the holiday season approaches, the need for community support grows. The names of all contributors are published in participating newspapers as donations are received, and individuals can specify whether their contributions should be anonymous or made in tribute or memory of someone.

With the continued support of the community, programs like Operation Holiday help ensure that families like Mateo and Rosalia’s can find joy and comfort during the holiday season, reminding us all of the power of compassion and generosity.