The holidays are often described as the most wonderful time of the year. But for many of the women, children, and families House of Ruth serves, the season can feel heavy—a reminder of what’s been lost or out of reach.
That’s why House of Ruth’s Gifts for Families program is so much more than delivering presents. It’s about restoring joy.
Gifts for Families ensures that every child feels the magic of the season and every adult feels seen and valued. Because the holidays shouldn’t just belong to some—they should belong to everyone.
A Season of Giving
From November to mid-December, our incredible community came together to support Gifts for Families in the most inspiring ways. Individuals, businesses, and organizations hosted drives, donated toys, contributed gift cards, and raised funds.
Week after week, our mailroom overflowed with donations—new and nostalgic toys, thoughtful gifts, and envelopes filled with gift cards.
The buzz of generosity filled the air as volunteers, affectionately dubbed our holiday elves, wrapped gifts with care. Together, we enjoyed warm holiday treats, swapped stories of holiday traditions, and celebrated the spirit of giving.
What You Made Possible
Here’s what you made possible in the 2024 holiday season:
- 190 children unwrapped gifts filled with joy.
- 1,000+ gifts donated by this extraordinary community.
- $25,000 in donations to provide every adult and teen (14+) with a gift card, giving them the power to choose something meaningful and personal.
Our facilities team traveled across all 8 wards of D.C. to deliver these gifts. For every toy placed in tiny hands and every gift card slipped into an envelope, the joy was palpable. Upon delivery, one mother shared:
“Thank you for all the presents and everything you have given us throughout the year since we’ve been here. You’ve definitely made us feel welcomed since we arrived and we thank you so much! Please enjoy your holiday!”
This is the heart of our Gifts for Families program.
Thank You for Being Part of the Magic
To every supporter who donated, wrapped, organized, or encouraged others to give—you did something extraordinary this year. You didn’t just fill homes with gifts; you filled hearts with hope. In a season that can feel dark for so many, you were the light. Thank you:
- Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
- British Embassy Washington
- DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence
- Deloitte
- Goulston & Storrs
- JHU Applied Physics Lab
- RSM US LLP
- St. Augustine Christian Catholic Church
- Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox
- The Gathering Spot
- The Little Gym International
- WRSHP IV Life
Interested in creating magic next year? Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on how to support our 2025 Gifts for Families program.
