This annual effort provides a gift for older kids and teens who would otherwise receive nothing
The Times
United Way of Bucks County is asking the community to help older kids and teens in need this holiday season. The organization’s annual Holiday Gift Card Drive, which runs through Dec. 14, provides a gift for kids who would otherwise receive nothing.
“For older kids who are not expecting to receive any gifts, a gift card means so much,” said Danielle Bush, director of community and volunteer engagement at United Way. “They are so grateful that our community cares about them. It’s a meaningful and empowering experience for older kids to get a little something for themselves rather than be left out.”
Last year, the support from the community enabled United Way to serve 997 older kids and teens. This was a huge increase from the 2016 drive which served 810 kids. This year, the need is even greater. Requests from area nonprofit agencies, school districts and residents are expected to exceed 1,000. United Way hopes to fill all requests for gift cards they receive.
The Holiday Gift Card Drive accepts gift cards of all denominations, starting at $5, now through Dec. 14. All donations go to local teens and older kids who are experiencing a true need this holiday season.
Bush suggests that donors consider gift cards to places that teens enjoy shopping: Target, Wal-Mart, popular clothing stores, and speciality shops like Starbucks and Barnes & Noble. A list of suggestions can be found at uwbucks.org/giftcarddrive.
Donors can also make a gift in someone else’s honor or memory.
“Helping an older kid makes a great gift for that person on your list that has everything,” Bush said. “You can make a donation to the Holiday Gift Card Drive in their honor and we will acknowledge your gift with a card and a story about a kid who received help.”
There are three ways for members of the community to help with this project: visit uwbucks.org/giftcarddrive to make a donation online; mail a check to United Way of Bucks County, 413 Hood Blvd., Fairless Hills, PA 19030 with “Gift Card Drive” on the memo line; or drop off a gift card at the same address. For those planning on making a donation in honor or memory of someone special, this can be done online.
Families looking to receive help through the Holiday Gift Card Drive can visit uwbucks.org/giftcardhelp or call the Holiday Gift Card Drive Hotline at 215–949–1600, ext. 105. Any questions can be directed to Bush at [email protected] or 215–949–1600, ext. 112.
