Operation Santa Claus Wrapping up and Thanking all
Guest Editor – Vanessa Vestergaard, Operation Santa Claus Program Director
Around the holidays, we share and take a moment to extend our hearts and minds to something bigger than the everyday that we experience throughout the year. The warm feelings that contribute to our celebrations are thankfulness and gratitude.
Operation Santa Claus is a service that I am thankful for because it stems from the place where we, with each volunteer and with each donation, celebrate and uplift those who carry mental health recovery. Moreover, Operation Santa Claus reflects on our community of openness and belonging and takes comfort, thankfully, in our shared resources. This year, through Operation Santa Claus, Mental Health America of Greenville County (MHAGC) partnered with individuals, hospitals, faith-based, schools, and many civic organizations, like the Girl Scouts. All were truly dedicated to bringing mental health awareness around the holidays and to spreading relief and joy to some who may be forgotten, unhoused, or living alone with severe daily life challenges.
Over the years, I have brought attention to Operation Santa Claus throughout Greenville and beyond. By listening to our partners and donors, I am amazed at how mental health is growing as a priority and importance for so many. Businesses are starting to reduce stigma through education, faith-based organizations are beginning to collaborate with other non-profits for mental health policy changes and schools are making mental health services more available. I feel grateful for this progress because with each step we make toward positive mental health, we will be enriched by the lives we save and the lives we recognize to be valued and supported not just over the holidays.
This year has been difficult with extreme hardship for many due to Hurricane Helene. I was humbled by the donations and support this year for Operation Santa Claus. The donations reminded me and those who receive our gift bags that we pulled together as a community, supported each other, and believed in our mission to help support, strengthen, and save lives through services that positively impact mental health.
I want to thank each donor and recipient for giving MHAGC and me this opportunity to lead Operation Santa Claus, again this year. The joy and the purpose of this program continue to light up eyes, fill up hearts, and spread smiles to all of our donors and recipients. Thank you all for your generosity and spirit. It is truly special to end the year by being thankful for the community and individuals around us and to go into the New Year with the memory of a great 2024 Operation Santa Claus!
