While the winter holidays are best known to be a time of good tidings and joy, they can be stressful for families who may be struggling or are living paycheck to paycheck. Southwest Key Programs has helped to connect families with their own Christmas Angel who could help to provide gifts and ease the stress from the extra costs that come with the holidays.

Cindy Leon, a Regional Executive Director in our Youth and Family Services programs, led the Christmas Angels program this year. “Having a giving spirit is a large part of who I am. I learned from my mom to always help people who are in need” said Cindy. “The holidays are a time of sharing, especially when you are blessed and able to do so. Christmas Angels is a reflection of the spirit of the holidays because this is an opportunity to share and receive blessings.”

Southwest Key helps families and youth across the Austin area through community development programs such as Spanish GED programs, Food Bank partnerships, East Austin College Prep and more. Families who receive services from these programs had the opportunity to receive gifts from a SWK Christmas Angel. Southwest Key employees sponsored 45 families in total and helped spread joy this holiday season to 133 children.

Thank you to Southwest Key staff that led this initiative!