The holiday season is here—a time filled with warmth, gratitude, and the joy of giving. But beyond the lights, the laughter, and the festive gatherings, this season also reminds us of the power we have to uplift others. At Family Promise of Cobb County, we see firsthand how giving transforms lives, creating ripple effects that last long after the holidays.
Let’s take a journey through the significance of this season, the impact of your generosity, and how you can join us in making a difference.
The Spirit of the Holidays: A Time for Generosity
The holidays are often called "the season of giving," but why is that? From a cultural perspective, this time of year encourages reflection and gratitude. We pause to count our blessings, celebrate our loved ones, and think about how we can share that joy with others.
For many, this generosity stems from tradition. Whether it’s donating to a food drive, volunteering at a shelter, or making financial contributions to causes close to your heart, acts of giving bring communities closer together.
But for families experiencing homelessness, the holidays can bring mixed emotions. While others enjoy the comfort of home, these families face uncertainty about where they’ll sleep or how they’ll provide for their children. That’s where you come in.
The Need is Greater Than Ever
This year, more families are struggling to make ends meet. Rising costs of living in Cobb County, unexpected emergencies, and limited access to affordable housing have forced many into homelessness.
According to recent studies:
Over 30% of American families are just one paycheck away from financial crisis.
The rate of family homelessness has increased by 8% nationwide in the past year.
Children make up nearly 40% of the homeless population in the U.S., highlighting the urgency of support.
At Family Promise of Cobb County, we provide these families with more than shelter—we offer stability, guidance, and hope. And your generosity makes this possible.
The Psychology of Giving: Why It Feels So Good
When you give, you’re not just helping others—you’re enriching your own life. Research shows that acts of generosity activate the brain’s reward centers, releasing chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. These "feel-good" chemicals boost your mood, reduce stress, and even enhance your physical health.
Beyond the immediate benefits, giving fosters a sense of purpose and connection. It reminds us that we’re part of a larger community, united by shared values of compassion and kindness.
Giving Tuesday: A Day to Make an Impact
Each year, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving marks Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity. It’s a time to pause amidst the hustle of holiday shopping and reflect on how we can give back.
Since its inception in 2012, Giving Tuesday has inspired billions of dollars in donations worldwide. But it’s about more than money—it’s a movement that celebrates the power of collective action.
This year, Giving Tuesday falls on December 3, and we have an exciting opportunity to amplify your impact. Through our partnership with Thrivant, every $2 you donate will be matched with $1, up to $20,000.
Here’s what this means for families in need:
A $50 donation becomes $75, providing storage bins and pillows for a family.
A $200 donation becomes $300, covering transportation costs for job interviews and school commutes.
Together, we can turn $20,000 in donations into $30,000—funds that will change lives.
Click here to donate and have your gift matched
The Ripple Effect of Generosity
Every donation you make has a ripple effect. When you help one family secure housing, you’re not just addressing their immediate needs—you’re laying the foundation for long-term stability.
Here’s how your gifts make a difference:
Stable Housing: Your contributions provide families with a safe, temporary place to stay while they work toward permanent solutions.
Skill-Building Programs: We offer financial literacy workshops, career counseling, and parenting assistance to empower families.
Children’s Support: From tutoring to fun activities, we ensure that children in our program have the tools to thrive academically and socially.
End-of-Year Giving: Why Now is the Time
The end of the year is a crucial time for nonprofits. Nearly 30% of all annual giving occurs in December, with 10% happening in the final three days of the year.
Why does this period see such a surge in generosity?
Tax Benefits: Donating before December 31 allows you to claim deductions on your taxes.
Holiday Spirit: The season inspires reflection and a desire to make a positive impact.
Urgency: Many organizations, like ours, rely on year-end giving to fund essential programs for the coming year.
Ways to Get Involved
Want to make a difference this season? Here are some ideas:
Donate to Our Thrivant Campaign: Every dollar counts, and your gift will go further thanks to the matching opportunity.
Volunteer Your Time: Whether it’s cooking a meal, mentoring a parent, or reading to children, your time is invaluable.
Spread the Word: Share our mission on social media, tell your friends, and encourage others to join the cause.
Shop with Purpose: Many retailers offer programs that donate a portion of your purchase to charity—an easy way to give back while holiday shopping.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for All
As we reflect on this season of giving, we’re filled with gratitude for supporters like you. Your kindness and compassion make everything we do possible. Together, we can ensure that every family in Cobb County has the opportunity to thrive, not just during the holidays but year-round.
From all of us at Family Promise of Cobb County, thank you for making hope possible.
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