A guest column by Vanessa Vestergaard, Program Director of Operation Santa Claus
Thanking those who support Operation Santa Claus is one of Mental Health America of Greenville County’s (MHAGC) favorite things. On July 16th, donors and recipients came together to celebrate this amazing program and to highlight our deep appreciation for their support.
The event represented a wide and diverse group with individuals representing faith-based organizations, hospitals, supported housing, Girl Scouts and the unhoused. We were fortunate to hear Von Reynolds share a few words from his perspective exactly how complicated and challenging the unhoused crisis is and he reminded everyone that we all play a part in the solution. We thanked Von for being a presence in the unhoused community and for always providing exactly what their needs are so that Operation Santa can continue to address them.
In addition, we learned some of the history of Operation Santa Clause from MHAGC’s Executive Director, Jennifer Piver. She gave a brief overview of how far we have come from the type of items raised to the number of people that MHAGC now serves throughout Greenville County and beyond. After, she invited everyone to share just how they are able to help raise 11 items for over 400 gift bags. Many said that they work in a team and even begin in July to collect the items. MAHGC was able to thank their amazing dedication and commitment.
Finally, we heard a written story by Naomi Campbell, the Specialized Neighborhood Manager, from Sunset Village. She recalled one Christmas season, when a woman who was without family and alone without support, received a holiday gift bag through Operation Santa Claus. Naomi Campbell said, “…this was the only present she received during the holidays.”
After the event, everyone could feel the joy and spirit of this holiday program. Many left energized with knowing and understanding just how their contributions matter for adults with chronic mental health conditions around the holiday season. More importantly, we deepened our community ties and fostered a deeper awareness of MHAGC’s mission: to help support, strengthen and save lives through services that positively impact mental health.
Again, MHAGC thanks everyone who came to be acknowledged while listening how much we all can do when we are bound by a common purpose and mission. Now, 2024 Operation Santa Claus is about to be in full gear and everyone at MHAGC is looking forward to another year full of surprises that keep giving warmth and cheer on the faces of those who receive a gift bag from Operation Santa Claus.
MHAGC is looking forward to continuing this tradition of celebrating in July the people and organizations who keep Operation Santa Claus vibrant and growing. Now, MHAGC will begin each holiday season with a message of gratitude and what joy that it brings for all to share.
