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 November 11th through December 18th, 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. 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,” explains Danielle Bush, Project Director.
Last year, support from the community enabled United Way to serve 1,187 older kids and teens. This was a huge increase from the 2017 drive which served 987 kids. This year the need is even greater. The nonprofit expects to receive over 1,200 requests from families who are struggling to provide their children something for the holidays. 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 December 18th. 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 specialty shops like Starbucks and Barnes & Noble. A list of suggestions can be found at www.uwbucks.org/giftcarddrive.
She adds that 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,” says Bush. “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: go to www.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, and drop off gift card at our office, see above for address. If you plan on donating in honor or in memory of someone special, you can do this online.
Families looking to receive help through the Holiday Gift Card Drive can visit our website at www.uwbucks.org/giftcardhelp or call Holiday Gift Card Drive Hotline at (215)949-1660, ext. 105.
Any questions can be directed to Danielle Bush at danielleb@uwbucks.org or call (215) 949-1660, ext 112.
