The holidays are often a time of fun and nostalgia, but they can also be a source of intense stress - especially for those families struggling with financial hardship. This season, over 1,000 MEDITECH staff continued their longstanding tradition of donating toys, clothing, food, and time to local communities in need of a little extra support.
“We all know many families are having a tougher time affording the essentials right now,” said Co-organizer Wendy Bellew. “But volunteers have really risen to the challenge this year, and it’s reflected in all of the donations we’ve received. I’m blown away by the generosity of MEDITECH staff, and their dedication to giving back when their neighbors really need it.”
Donations from Massachusetts staff supported families through the Germantown Neighborhood Center in Quincy; The Italian Home for Children in Jamaica Plain; Rosie’s Place in Boston; as well as the Justice Resource Institute (JRI) Foster Care and Adoption Unit in Fall River. In Massachusetts, the MEDITECH staff-run initiative served 38 families and over 100 minor children this year. Georgia donations were also distributed via Families First in Atlanta.
Co-organizer Erin Obuchowski emphasized that staff contributions weren’t just financial. “We’ve had many elves helping with organizing, bagging and wrapping gifts, and making deliveries,” she said. “Everyone participates in their own way. Many employees donate turkeys or other food items. Some even research and buy gift cards in the local towns, to make sure they are easy for local residents to access without transportation.”
For many MEDITECH staff, holiday giving has also become part of their own families' traditions. “Lots of people helped to make this happen - MEDITECHers, their spouses, children, and friends, and even former employees who continue to stay involved because they know what a difference it can make,” said Co-organizer Hilary Wein.
“We’ve seen kids who have received support grow up to be confident, secure adults years later. Because someone gave them hope during a tough time, they are moving on to college and fulfilling careers of their own - that’s what keeps a lot of us coming back year after year.”