IT’S THE MOOOOOOST, WONDERFUL TIIIIIIIME OF THE YEAAAAAAAR!!!!!!
IT’S OUR SIXTH ANNUAL HOLIDAY HANDS!!!!!
As we start our project this year, let’s look back on how Together Rising’s Holiday Hands started. Here’s an excerpt from the 2011 post I wrote to launch this idea:
I was watching a news story about the economy recently and there were many families talking about how they were going to have a hard time buying gifts for their children this year. Some said that having their usual Christmas dinner was not an option, because they didn’t have the money for the turkey and the stuffing and the yummy desserts. Some said they were worried about paying the heat bill during the holidays. One man said he just wanted to buy his wife a little necklace, a little something to show her how much her work at home meant to him, but he couldn’t. There just wasn’t any extra. None. All of this made me want to stick the fork I was holding directly into my eye.
Then I started thinking about how there are probably many of YOUR FAMILIES in these situations, and that made me want to put my fork down and start brainstorming. Because no way. Not on our watch. We might not be able to fix everything, but we can do some things. We can acknowledge each other’s needs, hear them, and then help each other in little ways, because we belong to each other.
I’d rather my kids have three holiday gifts and your kids have three holiday gifts, than my kids have six gifts and your kids have no gifts. That’s the bottom line here, for me. And I bet it is for you, too. I think I know you well enough to know that you agree.
I figure that everyone reading this has a need this holiday.
Some of us don’t have enough this year. These folks need a hand putting food on the table and buying gifts for their kids.
Some of us have a little extra this year. These folks need to reach out to other families and share, in order to wake themselves up and connect and really experience what the holidays mean.
And some of us have just enough. These folks need to sit back and witness some miracles, to keep believing in people and love.
We all have needs. When we don’t share our needs, out of pride or fear of rejection, we deprive other people of fulfilling their needs. Sometimes we need to receive and sometimes we need to give. Seasons change. So please decide which type of person you are this year, and participate accordingly.
That’s how it started…with a little idea and a lot of love. And now Holiday Hands has evolved into a program that has served thousands of families over the years. It’s MAGIC.
Last November, our incredible community fulfilled the wishes and hopes of almost 600 families in 3 hours (including about one hundred unpublished requests that Together Rising fulfilled directly). When I think about how Holiday Hands has grown over the years, I am flabbergasted, overwhelmed, filled up, exhausted, and mostly—grateful. Grateful for the courage of the askers and grateful for the character of the givers. Grateful to see such beauty emerge during hard times. This community is like a flower pushing through the cracks of solid concrete—determined against all odds to rise toward the light.
Last year, Colleen wrote us this:
“I help to homeschool a 12 year old boy. He is diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. He is a really sweet, kind, talented kid. The problem is is that he doesn’t have a lot of friends to connect with. Kids think he’s a little different (aren’t we all!) and he doesn’t have a lot of social interaction in the way of kids his own age. … I believe in this community and I think they would love to write to my pal!”
Over 100 people signed up to write to him. Here are some of the first responses:
Ally wrote us this:
“I would be incredibly grateful for a simple, tasty Christmas meal for myself, my husband, and our three kids. We are not picky, anything will do. This is not a necessity, just a wish, but I would love to be able to surprise my kids by having a Christmas tree to put their gifts under this year. We were fortunate enough to get some free books and puzzles for their Christmas gifts, so they are all set, but our small “Charlie Brown” tree reached the end of it’s life a couple of Christmases ago, and we haven’t been able to get a new one yet.”
This is how you responded:
Sara wrote us this:
“I grew up in an abusive household, and I don’t have very many happy memories of my childhood. My husband and I are hoping that a special Christmas dinner will become a loving and comforting memory for our children to carry throughout their lives and will help strengthen the joy-filled bond we have with our kids.”
This is how you responded:
A precious mama wrote us this:
“My son is a freshman and would love an Under Armour sweatshirt… I have always worked and never have not had a job until my work shut down. I have been putting in 20 resumes a week and haven’t been able to find anything. I honestly don’t know how I will make Christmas work this year.”
This is how you responded:
Shay wrote to us with this:
“My friend is a sweet soul who LOVES people. She has a job as a bagger at Publix and is extremely grateful for it. She would really benefit from some good winter shoes and clothes and a few more undergarments.”
This is how you responded:
And those are just FIVE of the listings, you guys. FIVE. Out of hundreds and hundreds.
Twelve people wrote in asking simply for love notes from us. I tried to count the number of responses to each of these listings and had to stop after the first two, because more than a hundred of us signed up for each one and counting is hard. After that I just scrolled and scrolled, with heart overflowing.
This is what we did last year, and we’re going to do it again.
Let’s get started.
Today is the day for folks who need a little extra to post their needs. If you know someone who might need this program – forward it to them. We are HERE FOR THEM. 
If you have a little extra to give this year or you know some folks who do, pleasepleaseplease mark your calendar to meet us back here on Wednesday, November 9 to review the requests and find your family match for this holiday season.
PLEASE READ THESE GUIDELINES. THEY ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER THIS YEAR:
First: Please read and reread and rereread the instructions before posting questions.
Second: Starting in 2013, we set a cap of $100 on each request (per family) in order to be able to help even more families. HOLIDAY HANDS is the time when strangers help other strangers provide holiday cheer for their families. It is specifically designed to help provide for the holiday needs and wants of families so that they can put the funds they would have spent on gifts toward other needs.
Third: Requests may be submitted to us for a limited time. You will receive a confirmation email once you submit a request—please be sure to check your SPAM e-mail folder. We will keep submissions open until we reach our Holiday Hands capacity (which could happen in a matter of hours or days). Requests will not automatically be posted when submitted and just because a request was submitted does not mean it will necessarily be part of our Holiday Hands program. Rather, we will be collecting and reviewing requests and then we will post the final, approved requests that will be part of Holiday Hands on Wednesday, November 9.
Fourth: Every year, after Holiday Hands is shut down, Together Rising continues to receive requests for holiday miracles all the way up to the end of the month. If you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution directly to Together Rising to allow us to help those families, please click here to donate.
WE BELONG TO EACH OTHER. LET’S PROVE IT. To list your needs and become part of our Holiday Hands 2016 Miracle, click here now:
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51 Comments
Yay, thank you.
Give me heart my love!!
I ask you ! Love is real ? Because i will give up 🙁
I am in.! !!!! I dont want to wait 🙂
it is favorite to mein
This is really great, I would not describe it better. I read good idea. I like it. thank you for sharing blog post with us.
I just ran into this site and just didn’t know if I could handle reading some of these stories, so I decided not to. I am a disabled widow who lost my husband and his income, but also my income, due to a hip/knee problem. I have spent over 3 yrs. in this situation and have become very depressed because of it and also how alienated I feel from everyone……my stepchildren, who tried to take everything away from me, my church, my family, past co-workers, neighbors, etc. Luckily, I have been able to receive a widows benefit through the VA, but its less than $500./month.
At this point in my life, I know I am not going to be able to work anymore, so I am ready to finally seek “disability benefits”. I also was injured 18 yrs. ago with a work related back injury.
My problem that I have and I seek advice for is that I feel so much guilt that I can’t financially do for others. My family members and everyone I know live almost 1,000 miles away and I feel like some just don’t realize that I can’t afford gifts like I use to do. Even buying stamps for cards and letters is impossible when a person is so limited with income.
I think if people saw me on a regular basis, they would realize the financial burden that I live with daily. I am not complaining, because I have learned to live very frugally and I have accepted those terms.
Thanks for sharing your nice experiences.
This post broke me. I’ve been so numb since the election, unable to process or even begin to grieve. Now I’m sitting here sobbing into my pasta. There is still hope. There is still love.
Love warriors have worked their magic. I noticed that each of the 615 requests have ALL been taken.
I asked for cards for my 96 year old grandmother and coats for my twin boys. I cannot describe how it feels to have all my FRIENDS, my fellow warriors, rise and fill all these requests and my heart. My heart is so full to overflowing with love and gratitude.
There is so much fear and anger in our communities right now, but I think our love glows and will cast out the darkness.
We truly do belong to each other, especially as people are hurting and afraid. You are ALL my sisters and loved ones.
Glennon, I love you.
and I truly love each of you, you gorgeous geniuses!!!!
Can we please do some more? Everything is already taken and I need to do something positive and loving. I love this and want to continue it. I don’t have much but I’m willing to share what I have.
Much love,
Jenifer
Today, after a long night, i looked for “you” on Facebook. There were words of despondent women and men. People in fear. And still messages of love and moving forward. I choose to be that. I am afraid, but I’ve been afraid before. And bravery is nothing but moving forward despite fear. Now is the time to be brave. I still believe that love trumps hate, and we must lead with kindness now, more than ever as we await the unknown. I will grieve for my friends who are fearful because of their race, religion, beliefs or gender, myself included. I will grieve for all the breaking down of walls that now may be rebuilt. But I stand strong for my kids, my sisters, my mothers and my loved ones. As you remind us, our love is strong and so are we.
I especially need that love today as a job change has put me in a place of either no insurance for myself and my kids, or paying nearly $2,000/month for two months of insurance until my new benefits kick in. I’m scared and don’t know what to do. My ex (my father’s kids) is able to put our kids on his insurance for those two months, but wants me to pay for it out of his child support payments. I’m at a loss, more devastated for his lack of parental responsibility than the money that I will have to scrounge for. My children will have less holiday gifts, so that I can give them the gift of health insurance, a gift they truly won’t understand at 6 and 7 years old. After a night of heartbreak in the election, this was the last heartbreak I needed. If we can’t take care of our own, how can we care for the masses?
Sorry this has turned from love to heartache. But I just needed to let it all out here. Thank you.
I was so scared, so overwhelmed, just on the verge of panic the very moment I woke up this morning knowing tomorrow is The Day. Election Day. I know how I *want* it to go, what I believe in my heart is the “right” way, but I also believe that — like you said, Glennon — no matter what, there will be people hurting at the results. And from the process. But now? Now I have November 9 to look forward to! To commit my love, my compassion, my energy, my kindness to the world! No matter the results of November 8, I know the results of November 9 are going to be Love. <3 Blessed beyond words to have found your work, G! Love you, love your heart, love your face 🙂 Thank you!
oh no! how did i miss signing up for this???? My mother could use a lot of holiday cheer so that she can share in the spirit on giving (bc she cant afford to otherwise) but I have somehow gotten caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life of raising three kids and missed this. No!!!!!
Hi,
I’m a mom of 2 beautiful children. My son who is tues and my daughter who is 8 month’s. This year is very hard for us due to getting kicked out of our place and my boyfriend losing his job. We receive welfare but it’s not enough to live off of for a month let alone for my kids have a good Christmas. I’m the type of person who doesn’t like to ask for help but this year our little family can really use is and would greatly appreciate it.
I can’t find where to ask. It breaks my heart to ask for anything. It was SOOO much easier to be on the giving side. It not really a holiday request as it comes up before the holidays. I would love to see Glennon speak at the church in Edina, MN on November 10. I saw her a few weeks ago and got to talk to her personally. Her comments and hugs were so profound to me it is helping change my life immediately. I spend Christmas alone and will probably have a frozen cardboard pizza for dinner but this would make my holiday. Everything just hurts right now.
Thanks!
Gina
Hello,
We recently took on raising our 3 grandkids (6,4,2) when we first got them we had a couple of old tricycle/bigwheel bikes but they were so old they soon broke. I had intended to buy new ones for Christmas for them but our furnace broke down and now we are having to pay attorney fee’s so that we can file for legal gardianship. While this is not a necessity It would be really wonderful to be able to give them tricycles/bigwheel on Christmas. Used ones would be fine, there not picky they just miss being able to ride bikes. Thank you. Cyndy
Hi Cyndy, What a fabulous Nana/Grandma you are …. I don’t know where you are and I’m not sure I can do bikes from afar but I sure as heck can do SOMETHING so please get in touch. HUGS Caroline
Hello Caroline,
I’m so sorry I haven’t replied earlier I was watching for a email from someone.
We live in Salem Oregon and anything would help right now. Thank you so much!
Christopher is 6 and loves cars of all kinds.
Jordan is 4 and loves trains.
And Ember is 2 and likes to play tea party and loves dollis.
Our address is
Cyndy Polka
3603 Sunnyview Rd NE
Salem Oregon 97305
I realize it maybe to late but the fact that you offered to help renews my hopes for the futer.
Thank you your wonderful heart has made my Christmas.
Cyndy
I just filled out an application but when I hit submit it said they were no longer accepting applications???
Hello- I am not sure this is where I request, but figured would start here. I am not even sure how to ask for help, I have always been able to provide for my family, and this year there just is no way that it is possible. I am even working with the state for funding but finding that on my income which is just 30k its still to much to get help with food and heat and such.
Here is my background- I am a mom to a 4 yr old little boy named Gavin and he has autism with speech delay/apraxia. I work full time while trying to manage him in preschool and therapies to give my son the best future he can have given our dealings. He is normal just like any other little boy– loves trains, cars, swords, guns, being loud, having fun and laughing. He has come a long way since the dx, and is finally understanding holidays- this was the first year he was excited for Halloween and went trick or treating! I am saddened I can’t provide the upcoming holidays for him because I have to decide to pay a house bill, or therapy bill. So I am sure there are others out there in need just like us, but anything for my son would be appreciated– he is just like every other 4 year old hoping that he has a visit from santa and the holidays. I will do my due part and pay it forward if we can be so lucky to receive a little something to get us through.Thank you all for your love and happy holidays from this mommy and her son to you all!
Hi Heather! I’m an early interventionist for children with special needs, can I be of assistance with managing and navigating the special needs world? I live in California and am most familiar with our resources but I might be able to help you reduce your therapy bills or preschool bills. There are a lot of programs I might be able to hook you up with that can help with money, behaviors, and stress. I’d also love to send him a little toy as well. Please email me at jolie.vanschoik at gmaildotcom.
Hi my name is jetter freeman and i am going to need help with getting my two girls some things for christmas, i am behind on my bills being a single mom of two i want have enough funds to go christmas shopping for them. Thank you.
I would love to help you. I have two girls, and I was raised by a single mom and we sometimes struggled. Hang in there, I feel sure things will turn around for you and your girls? How can I help you for Christmas? I am not sure how this works but if we could get in direct touch we could message about details that would be great.
I can’t wait to get started!
Hi,
My brother is in need for his children this Christmas. He made a big move 2yrs ago after his 2oldest sons mom had passed away. He is a father of 9 and him and his girlfriend are struggling after trying to start a life somewhere cheaper to live. I only see them twice a year if that and I myself can not do much with two kids of my own. He’s a really good dad and tries really hard to give them everything but Christmas is just too rough having so many kids. Anything anyone could help with in anyway we would be so thankful. I’m sending this because my brother would never do this. I can send any info you need. Thank you soo much and God bless all of you for everything you do❤ -Chrissy
I’m not sure if i did this right hopefully it worked
I have been blessed with so much recently, that I am able to give. My calendar is marked for November 9th – I want to spread joy – because my life is an echo of what I surround myself with.
(found you here from Courtney Carver’s emails about “Be More with Less”)
Love this so much. A couple of years ago my request was filled. The last two years I have watched with love and amazement but wasn’t able to help. This year, I can help. So excited!
This gave me chills!!!! So awesome to see this go full circle through you!!!
Some days I feel like this life doesn’t hold enough joy, hope, or reasons to want to stay.
I feel “hope-less”.
Could you all hold the light of “hope” for me?
I’m going to ask the universe to show me reasons I should stay.
I’m asking for “warriors” to help carry me.
I don’t know you, but I’ve been you. I hope you will find a strong connection with someone this holiday season and every season! Once you have strong human connections with people whom you can laugh, visit, play, eat, pray and connect with – life seems full again! Take those steps towards making loving, strong real human eye-to-eye connections with, it’ll be worth it! Stick around with us and you’ll see!
I’m holding you. I’m praying for love’s light to glow in your heart. I may not know exactly how you are feeling, and our problems may differ, but there IS hope. I believe in it for you. Just keep holding my hand until you feel it too. YOU ARE LOVED.
Holding light for you!!!
Kim, I will be sending hope and light and love your way, and I have no doubt that other Monkee Sisters will do the same. Thank you for reaching out and asking for help. You wouldn’t have done it if you didn’t have any hope at all for an answer. See, there still is a glimmer inside of you 🙂 There is hope, and there is joy, patiently waiting for you to see it. The Universe is waiting for you to notice the love it has in store for you, I promise. You will find it on your time, it is there. We will carry you. Hold on, Warrior. Love,
Caroline
I’m holding you in the light. And I can honestly, truly say that I love you. You belong to me. You belong to us all.
Kim, I don’t know you, but I love you and want you to stay. I’m holding the light of hope for you. This life is hard and messy. But it is also beautiful – just look for it – it’s everywhere.
Kim. I love you!! Your honesty and vulnerability is beautiful!! I will carry you and pray for you.
Yep crying! THIS is what the holidays are all about
G,
I need something big. I need a miracle. It’s kind of related. I had the best neighbor once. She was my best friend when I really needed one. We moved to separate pays off the US, and got married, and have families, and live life, and dream dreams. Her husband, an Iraq War veteran, is dying. They can’t fix his lungs, and this has all moved so fast, and it’s confusing, and big, and hurty. And I hate it. My heart said to call upon you because you’re a helper like me, and like she is. And their hearts are hurting. I don’t know what would make them happy, or smile again, but I’m sure that what ever it is, it’s going to make a bittersweet memory. But I’m feeling a little helpless.
Listen. My phone hates me. I swear I can spell and use the right words and do hard things. Just not on my phone. Apparently.
My phone hates me too. 😉 I am not sure, just as you stated, what would be most helpful for your friends. But all times when I feel helpless I know that the best help I can give is prayer. The Big Man (God for anyone confused lol) and I are pretty tight. We talk all day long (I’m a prayer-aholic) and I will be adding your friends to my list of prayers. I will be praying for you as well. My heart hurts for all of you but I know that the power of prayer and faith can overcome ANYTHING. I have seen it and lived it. God Bless and please give yourself a hug from another huge heart 🙂
This website doesn’t allow you to give an email.
How should a listing title go? I tried but got a highlight of characters left? Also what does HTML mean? That was the highlight for my description. Help please
HTML is a type of computer language. Just type in the box, and you will be just fine. I am sure the title can be anything you think is appropriate like “Christmas Dinner” or “Letters for son” or “Jacket for daughter.” Good luck!!!
This is my favorite 🙂 thank you for connecting us all together here. xoxo
I had to resubmit because I entered my email address incorrect. . Realized it after I didn’t get an email back. Hope that is ok
Crying reading this! So amazing! Cannot wait to bless people!
I’m so in!!
I look forward to being a part of this
Yay yay yay! Already my heart is overflowing with love! Can’t wait!