Operation Holiday has officially commenced its fundraising efforts for the 2025 program, marking its 35th year of providing essential support to families in need during the holiday season. The initiative aims to supply food assistance to 199 families and gifts for 403 children, who are referred by 22 agencies across Montgomery, Chester, and Berks counties.
The significance of this program has been underscored by the ongoing challenges faced by food pantries in the region. Referrals for assistance come strictly from partnership agencies that include food pantries, early learning centers, schools, social services, and health clinics. These referrals are thoroughly vetted by the agencies and reviewed by the Operation Holiday steering committee to ensure that help reaches those who need it most.
In recent years, the program has successfully distributed several thousand dollars in donations to local food pantries, in addition to providing holiday gifts. This year, the fundraising targets are ambitious, building on last year’s success where 619 donations totaled $84,236. Contributions from readers range from $10 to $5,000, and it is notable that Operation Holiday operates without any corporate or foundation sponsorship. All funds raised are directed entirely to assist local families, with no management or fundraising overhead costs.
Operation Holiday began in 1991 at The Mercury in Pottstown, with the mission of ensuring that families experiencing hardships can provide for their children during the holidays. Over the years, the initiative has expanded its reach through partnerships with other regional newspapers, including the Reading Eagle, The Times Herald, The Reporter, and Daily Local News.
Each family in the program receives gift cards to area grocery stores, allowing them to purchase food for a holiday dinner and other essential pantry items. Weis Markets has partnered with Operation Holiday, facilitating food purchases and providing gift cards. For children aged 16 years and younger, gift cards purchased through Boscov’s will be distributed in collaboration with the referring agencies, allowing families to select gifts that best suit their needs.
It is important to note that only families referred by an agency are accepted into the program, ensuring that assistance is directed appropriately. Operation Holiday relies solely on contributions from readers, which are fully tax-deductible.
For those wishing to support the initiative, online donations can be made through a secure portal in partnership with TriCounty Community Network at tcnetwork.org. Donations can also be mailed in, with checks made payable to Operation Holiday and sent to the following addresses: P.O. Box 1181, Pottstown, PA 19464; The Reporter, 34 Susquehanna Ave., Suite 100, Lansdale, PA 19446; or Operation Holiday, 1440 Lacrosse Ave., Reading, PA 19607. Contributors’ names will be published in participating newspapers as donations are received, with the option to designate contributions as anonymous or in tribute to someone special.
The community’s involvement is crucial in making this holiday season a memorable one for families in need. With the support of local readers and businesses, Operation Holiday is poised to continue its impactful mission of providing for those who require assistance during this festive time.
