Summit County Holiday Giving Programs Spotlight Meals, Toys, and Homeless Outreach

Shapiro highlights nonprofits helping seniors, kids, and those overcoming homelessness

SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio – Let’s build an article around the focus keyword “Summit County holiday giving programs.” I’ll draft this as a news-style piece you can run on your Northeast Ohio sites, based on the release you shared.

Summit County Holiday Giving Programs Offer Simple Ways to Support Neighbors

Subtitle: Shapiro promotes local nonprofits aiding seniors, children, and residents exiting homelessness

Looking for meaningful ways to help others this season? Summit County holiday giving programs highlighted by County Executive Ilene Shapiro are making it easy for residents to support local nonprofits that serve neighbors facing hunger, homelessness, substance use disorder, and other serious challenges.

Shapiro’s office compiled a non-exhaustive list of holiday giving opportunities in Summit County, encouraging residents to “think local” and support organizations that work year-round to provide vital social services.

“We are lucky to have such a generous community that truly comes together in support of those in need, as well as so many nonprofits that provide vital social services to these same folks year-round,” Shapiro said in a statement. “Giving a gift can be just as fun as getting a gift, so I encourage residents who want to give back this holiday season to think local and support a holiday giving program close to home.”

Residents can choose to volunteer in person, donate toys and other needed items, or make financial contributions, including tribute gifts made in honor of friends or family members.

Focus On Seniors: Vantage Aging’s End the Wait

One of the featured Summit County holiday giving programs is Vantage Aging’s End the Wait initiative, which supports Meals on Wheels of Northeast Ohio.

The effort is aimed at delivering nourishment, independence, and hope to older adults in the community who are currently on the Meals on Wheels waitlist. According to the release, more than 200 older adults in the area are waiting for services. Donations to End the Wait help Vantage Aging expand its capacity so more seniors can receive regular, nutritious meals and wellness checks.

For residents who want their holiday giving to directly support older neighbors who may be isolated or food-insecure, End the Wait offers a focused and impactful option.

Helping Children: Keys 2 Serenity’s Toy Giveaway and Party Sponsorships

Families looking to spread holiday cheer to local children can support Keys 2 Serenity’s Toy Giveaway and Christmas Party Sponsor program.

The nonprofit is collecting toys and items for anyone in need of gifts from birth through age 17. Donors can drop off toys or contribute funds. For those who prefer a more personal connection, the organization also offers the option to sponsor a child for $25 so they can attend the Christmas party.

This program aims to ensure that children in need still experience the joy and excitement of the holidays, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Supporting People Exiting Homelessness: Friends in Tents & Community Outreach

Residents who want to help people rebuild their lives after homelessness can give through Friends in Tents & Community Outreach’s “Adopt a ‘Project 34: Homeless No More’ Friend” initiative.

The program invites donors to provide items from Needs & Wishlists prepared for individuals who have recently overcome homelessness. These wishlists typically include both practical necessities and a few “extras” that help new housing feel like home.

By “adopting” a Project 34 friend, donors can play a direct role in helping a neighbor stabilize and settle into a safer, more secure living situation.

How To Find More Summit County Holiday Giving Programs

The list promoted by County Executive Shapiro is not exhaustive, but it’s a starting point for residents who may not know where to begin.

For the full list of highlighted holiday giving opportunities, residents can visit:

• Summit County Holiday Giving webpage: https://co.summitoh.net/HolidayGiving
• County Executive Shapiro’s Facebook page: https://facebook.com/SummitExecutive

From tribute gifts made in a loved one’s name to toy donations, meal support, and help for those transitioning out of homelessness, Summit County’s holiday giving programs offer multiple ways to make a local impact this season.