‘HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS’ RETURNS TO HELP FAMILIES, CHILDREN IN NEED

GASTONIA, N.C. – After serving more than 2,000 children last year, The Lighthouse Children’s Advocacy Center will host ‘Hope for the Holidays’ for its fourth year, with the aim of serving even more members of the Gaston County community in need.

Previous year’s drives have been sparked by a $50,000 ‘Secret Santa,’ which led to more than $50,000 in additional giving from businesses and community members last year. That same Secret Santa has pledged another $50,000 for 2025 and is encouraging the community to rally around those less fortunate to make their holiday season a bit brighter.

In addition to providing financial contributions, community members can help by purchasing items on the Hope for the Holidays wish list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3AJ5A6DO6P7K0/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex. All gifts must be delivered by December 13, 2025. Gifts can be delivered to the large red sleigh at The Lighthouse located at 3150 City Church Street, in Gastonia. Amazon shipments will be auto-delivered to The Lighthouse.

In addition, businesses or groups can participate by hosting collection drives for items or financial donations. The Lighthouse is also seeking volunteers to help with the distribution and shopping days in December. Individuals or businesses interested in contributing can learn more by contacting Heather Kauffman at Heather.Kauffman@GastonGov.com. Volunteer information, wish list details and toy/coat drive information are available on The Lighthouse’s Facebook page (The Lighthouse-Gaston County CAC).

The Lighthouse will have two shopping days open to those in the community that need help for their children for the holidays.

Shopping days:

December 16^th: City Church-Fairview Campus

2782 Fairview Drive, Gastonia, NC 

Starting at 9am, while supplies last.

December 19th: Mt Holly Municipal Complex

400 E. Central Avenue, Mt. Holly, NC

Starting at 9am, while supplies last.