UPDATE: Volunteers at People’s Place in Kingston, NY are making a significant impact this holiday season, delivering joy to over 2,300 children through their Project Santa initiative. As the community comes together, the need for support remains urgent and critical.
Amid the festive season, where many focus on shopping and decorations, People’s Place is dedicated to ensuring that families across Ulster County experience holiday cheer. Executive Director Christine Hein emphasized the extensive volunteer efforts, stating, “An enormous amount of volunteer hours went into executing Project Santa, Bag Holiday Hunger, and, of course, Thanksgiving.”
The Project Santa program has successfully provided packages filled with toys, books, and winter clothing to children aged newborn to 16. In addition, the Bag Holiday Hunger program served 900 households, ensuring families have essential food items during the school break.
Hein recounted the staggering amount of work done since before Thanksgiving, which included providing meals and support to families in need. “The café was open on Thanksgiving for brunch, and we handed out Thanksgiving meals,” she added, highlighting the agency’s commitment to service.
The overwhelming response from the community demonstrates the profound impact of these initiatives. “The vast majority of people say thank you, but then you always get a certain percentage that are just so grateful,” Hein remarked, sharing heartwarming stories of appreciation from families.
Volunteers from the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office and the Kingston Kiwanis Club have joined efforts, with People’s Place becoming increasingly reliant on volunteer support during the holidays. “Normally, we are about 93% volunteer-driven; during the holidays, that number goes up to 97%,” Hein noted.
While the holiday season inspires generosity, Hein urges the community to consider volunteering year-round. “People are still struggling in January, February, and March. It doesn’t end on New Year’s Eve,” she stressed, highlighting the importance of continued support.
For those looking to contribute, detailed information on how to volunteer or support holiday programs is available at peoplesplace.org.
As the holiday season progresses, the need for assistance remains critical, and volunteers are essential to the mission of People’s Place. Stay tuned for further updates on their ongoing initiatives and how you can help make a difference in the lives of those in need.