Holiday Gifts for Teens

These past holidays were quite busy.  Once again, Burbank Temporary Aid Center received a record number of requests.  In all, more than 450 families were help, which mean more more than 1,000 kids received gifts.  We couldn't have done it without you. 

Each family has its own unique story.  This year, I was particularly moved by a homeless father, who wanted to give his kids gifts, most likely for the last time.  His bone cancer has stopped responding to treatments and his is in a great deal of pain.  But his first thought was to make the holidays meaningful for his kids, so they could have that memory of him.

Another woman is the mother of a special needs child.  Her husband was laid off from his job in the television industry and still hasn't found employment to cover their needs.  While both parents look for work, they still have to address the -unique needs of thier son.  Being able to "shop" in BTAC's Santa's Room, helped a bit to lift their load and give some unexpected joy to thier son. 

These are only two of many examples I could have shared.  But we couldn't have done it without you.

Thank you for donating to support the Holiday Gifts for Teens. 

Thanks to your support over the past year, BTAC is almost ready to open Santa's Room! 

As we were setting up, it was so nice to know that there was much more of a selection for the teens this year.  In a few weeks, the parents will go through Santa's Room and "shop" for Christmas gifts for thier children.  They will be able to choose from many different items - gift cards, skateboards, cosmetics, sports equiptment, book and many more things for the teens in thier families. 

Last weekend, I was having lunch near a building with a long ramp to leading to the front door.  There were two teenaged boys having a wonderful time using the ramp for skateboarding and tricks.  Then, I realized that they had received the skateboards through our Santa's Room program.  It warmed my heart to know that through BTAC and someone's act of generousity, these two boys could enjoy an afternoon of skateboarding fun.

In the past, BTAC had to limit the number of teens who could receive gifts.  Parents were heartbroken to know that one of thier children would not receive any gifts.  This is especially hard, becasue the teens are often babysitting and helping in other ways with thier younger siblings - without pay.  Donations have allowed BTAC to exapnd the program enough to accept all families with teenagers.

Now, as we prepare to open the doors to Santa's Room 2012, I am reenergized and confident that the teens will not be forgotten.

Your support makes a huge difference!

Thank you!