Residents of Huachuca City are coming together to support local families in need this holiday season. The town has initiated its annual Christmas assistance program, which aims to provide food boxes and toys to low-income families, addressing the urgent need for support in a community where approximately 23% of the population lives below the poverty line, according to the Census.
The program is currently accepting applications from families in need. Those selected will receive essential food items and toys, ensuring a brighter Christmas for children and relief for struggling parents. Town Manager Suzanne Harvey expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “I think it’s one of the best parts of my job to do things like this. You see it all over their faces. They’re very grateful and often astonished because they don’t expect much canned goods.”
Collecting donations began earlier this week, with community members contributing both toys and food items. All donations are sourced locally, ensuring that the support goes directly back to families in Huachuca City. “We are still unloading things, so we are really, really grateful,” Harvey added, highlighting the community’s generosity.
Despite receiving substantial donations of canned goods, the program is still in need of specific items to complete the Christmas meal boxes. Harvey noted that they require turkey and stuffing to provide a full festive meal for the families. “We think that everybody should have a bright Christmas. This is something we wanted to do to give back to our community, but I must say that we wouldn’t be able to do it without the generosity of the folks who live here,” she emphasized.
The initiative goes beyond just one day of celebration; it aims to ensure families have enough food that extends beyond Christmas Day. “We want to reduce food waste while ensuring sustained nourishment for recipients,” Harvey remarked. This approach not only supports families during the holiday season but also fosters long-term well-being within the community.
Community members wishing to contribute can drop off food and toy donations at the Huachuca City Library and Town Hall. The program is designed to alleviate some stress for local families facing financial hardships during the festive period. Harvey reflected on the impact of the program, saying, “What I see on their faces is gratefulness, but also relief.”
Applications for families to receive toys and food boxes are available at the Huachuca City Library. Selection will be based on need, though the town hopes to gather enough resources to assist everyone who applies. As the program unfolds, it serves as a powerful reminder of community solidarity and compassion during the holiday season.
