The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

In 1963 Andy Williams recorded the Christmas classic The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. The song paints a picture of a season where everything feels perfect. I love the sentiment, but the reality of life during Christmas looks very different for many families in our community.

According to 2023 data from the South Carolina Department of Education, about thirteen thousand seven hundred seventy children in our state face homelessness. These are children like yours and mine. That truth should stir compassion and a desire to help.

These numbers are not just entries in a report. They represent real children and real families living through difficult seasons. I have been blessed throughout my life. I have never been homeless and I have always had a network to lean on when support was needed. Not everyone in our community can say the same.

My time at Collins Family Ministries has shown me how vital community support truly is. With more than thirteen thousand people living below the poverty line in Oconee County, your support can make a real difference for families trying to stay afloat. Your giving also allows us to provide safe shelter for children and at risk youth when homelessness becomes a reality.

At Collins we recognize that many factors contribute to homelessness among children and youth. For forty five years we have worked to ensure they have a place to turn when life takes an unexpected and painful turn. This year a single mom shared how Collins stepped in to help her and her children in their moment of crisis. You can watch her story video by scanning the QR code or visiting collinsfamilyministries dot org slash let love be.

The work at Collins continues only through community generosity. A gift of fifty dollars can provide a full week of meals, bringing hope and stability to children and youth during difficult times. Your support truly makes a difference.