2020 was a tough year for us all. The holidays were different and, for many, not as joyful as years past. Nevertheless, we at DP worked to continue our holiday tradition of giving a bit of extra cheer for those in need.
Since 1994, Pathways has partnered with several organizations to give presents and gift cards to individuals and families in need. Many know this program as Pathways Holiday Outreach (PHO), and formerly, the Giving Tree.
While no physical gifts were exchanged during Pathways Holiday Outreach this year, we were able to give out gift cards to individuals in services and any siblings or children living in the home under the age of 18.
Operation Santa Clause is another holiday program that supports families with the highest needs. This year we provided 15 families with a holiday dinner, gift cards, and grocery funds.
Like many things in 2020, these programs required innovation to protect the health and safety of everyone involved. Our staff worked hard to implement a contactless pickup system for Operation Santa and delivered gift cards electronically.
In total, our outreach programs helped more than 400 individuals who were nominated by their service coordinators.
A huge thank you to Lockheed Martin for their partnership in Operation Santa Clause, and to Franklin Elementary School, Empower, IHS/Markit, Paychex, Sweet Action, Swallow Hill, Chubb Insurance, Junior League of Denver, and those who donated individually, for making Pathways Holiday Outreach possible.