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The holiday season has begun — a sun has been overwhelmed to winter; the streets are drenched in Christmas colors; and school has finished (much to the dismay of parents who now must face the daily demands for toys and other presents). Children claim December for their own, expecting great rewards when the month is finally finished, wanting only for the days to pass so they can discover what is hidden beneath their trees. All gifts are coveted and will eventually be shown to friends, taken back to class and praised. This is the way of things… but not for all.
There are millions of children each year who cannot share in the traditions of excess. Their families are instead defined by limited means and meager incomes. Purchasing items therefore becomes an impossible thing. No dollars can be spared — even for the simple act of buying supplies for school.
The tragedy of this was finally recognized (and countered) in 1990 with the establishment of the Family Giving Tree. A charity devoted to the welfare of children, this organization offered a unique purpose — to provide students with the items they need to succeed in class. Pencils, pens, paper and more are offered (in a backpack, of course) to ensure that individuals are able to have the educational experience they deserve. There will no longer be a struggle for essential goods. There will no longer be the worry of having too little. Children can instead simply focus on learning, not trying to scrounge together the appropriate supplies.
And this is a gift that is vital.
The Family Giving Tree is an uncommon organization with an undeniable intention — through its good works students can finally offer their best efforts to an education. Classrooms can be conquered and knowledge can be earned.
It’s preparation for the future. It’s aid for the present. And it’s necessary for the holiday season.
