To the Editor:

As the holiday season approaches, our thoughts turn to celebration, connection, and generosity during the happiest time of the year.

However, for many young people in our community, the holidays can be a stark reminder of challenges and unmet needs.

At Valley Youth House, we work tirelessly to provide stability and support for youth facing homelessness, foster care transitions, or difficult family situations.

Valley Youth House works from a trauma informed, healing centered perspective, incorporating positive youth development and cultural awareness into all aspects of our agency.

We strive for our youth to feel safe, have choice and voice, collaborate in a trusting environment, and be empowered to make a difference in their own lives.

We aim to help young people with dreams and aspirations, break the cycle of trauma and poverty to enable them to be much more than victims of their circumstances.

Last year, our Holiday Gift Drive brought joy to over 1,500 young people, reminding them they are not alone.

This year, we are asking the kind members of our community to help us do even more.

A small act of kindness — whether it’s donating a gift or sponsoring a wish list — can make a world of difference for a young person who needs to know they are seen, valued, and supported.

Your participation helps more than just fill stockings; it restores hope and offers a sense of belonging.

Together, we can ensure that every young person in our community feels the warmth and joy of the holiday season.

To learn more about how you can get involved, please visit valleyyouthhouse.org/holiday or contact me at cschoemaker@valleyyouthhouse.org or 610-820-0166.

On behalf of Valley Youth House, thank you for your support and partnership in this life-changing work.

Christina J. Schoemaker, MBA, CFRE

Senior VP of Advancement

Valley Youth House