WEST CHESTER, PA — As rising costs squeeze household budgets across Chester County, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine turned its annual Holiday Cheer drive into a large-scale effort to support families facing seasonal stress. Guests arriving at seven YMCA branches last week were greeted with holiday music, snacks, and a festive “shop” stocked with donated toys, winter coats, and household essentials.
Families were invited to choose from gifts that promoted warmth, physical activity, and creativity. Each household also received a holiday meal kit and a $25 retail gift card.
Bertram L. Lawson II, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, said the organization’s goal was to create a joyful experience that eased the pressures families often feel at the end of the year. He noted that staff and volunteers worked to make the events welcoming, offering everything from hot chocolate stations to gift wrapping and themed activities.
This year’s drive drew support from 943 donors and corporate partners. As a result, the program assisted 788 families — including 2,359 children — and distributed 998 winter coats, 134 bikes, and 134 helmets. Coats were provided by the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation, bikes by Giving Bikes Back, and helmets by Nemours Children’s Health. Additional items and meal kits came from YMCA members, staff, community partners, and a wide range of local organizations, including AccessLex Institute, STP Investment Services, the Greater West Chester Sunrise Rotary Club, Compass Training Solutions, Vanguard, Girl Scout Troop 4932, Constellation Network, and Constellation PowerLabs.
Volunteers also played a major role. A total of 155 individuals contributed their time, including corporate teams from Teva Pharmaceuticals and AccessLex Institute, as well as student volunteers from West Chester University and Lincoln University.
Laura Milazzo Mackiewicz, Director of Volunteer and Civic Engagement for the organization, said the Holiday Cheer program reflects the community’s willingness to support neighbors in need. She described YGBW as a key connector in Chester County, bringing together donors, volunteers, and families seeking assistance.
The YMCA reported that despite the significant turnout, help is still needed. Another 150 families are waiting for holiday support, and community members able to donate $25 retail gift cards can drop them off at any of the seven YMCA of Greater Brandywine branches.
More information on contributions and volunteer opportunities is available at ymcagbw.org.
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