UPDATE: Volunteers at People’s Place in Kingston, NY have successfully delivered holiday joy to over 2,300 children this December through their innovative Project Santa, while also addressing food insecurity for 900 households with the Bag Holiday Hunger initiative.
As many in Ulster County focused on festive preparations, People’s Place has been tirelessly working to ensure that the spirit of the season is felt by all. “We executed an enormous amount of volunteer hours leading up to the holidays,” said Executive Director Christine Hein. She highlighted the organization’s commitment, stating, “The café was open on Thanksgiving for brunch, and we handed out meals to those in need.”
The Project Santa program aimed to provide children aged newborn to 16 with gifts that included toys, board games, books, and winter clothing. Hein reported that this year’s initiative reached more than 2,300 children, showcasing the significant impact of community support.
In addition to toys, the Bag Holiday Hunger program supplied children with essential food items while school is out of session, helping 900 households—a number that reflects the diverse needs of families, some with up to seven children. “These bags included breakfast, lunch, and snack foods,” Hein emphasized, underscoring the importance of such assistance during the holiday break.
To manage the increased demand during the holiday season, People’s Place recruited additional volunteers from the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, the Kingston Kiwanis Club, and local businesses. “Normally, People’s Place is about 93% volunteer-driven,” Hein explained. “During the holidays, that number rises to approximately 97%.”
Hein expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response from the community. Many beneficiaries shared heartfelt messages of thanks, affirming the positive impact of the organization. “You hear things like, ‘You’ve made my child have a happy Christmas,’” Hein noted.
She also urged community members to think beyond the holiday season and consider volunteering year-round. “People are still struggling in January, February, and March. It doesn’t end on New Year’s Eve,” she said, reminding everyone of the ongoing need for support.
For those interested in learning more about how to help or participate in future programs, visit peoplesplace.org. The holiday efforts of People’s Place highlight the power of community and the critical role of volunteers in making a difference during the most wonderful time of the year.
