Heart, Love & Soul launches 2024 holiday appeal to meet growing community needs

Heart, Love & Soul Press Release and Photos

As the holiday season approaches, Heart, Love & Soul is proud to launch its annual holiday appeal to support the growing needs of our community.

This year, the demand is higher than last year – and continues a trajectory in which meal distribution from our pantry has increased 115% between 2021-24. With many families struggling due to tightened budgets and reduced benefits, the need for support has never been more urgent.

Holiday support for families

This December, we are committed to spreading joy and meeting essential needs through several key initiatives:

•Toy drive: In tandem with WNY Partnerships and Toys for Tots, we are collecting toys for children ages 0-12 through Dec. 9. Donations of new, unopened and unwrapped toys can be dropped off at either of the following locations:

√ Heart, Love & Soul: 939 Ontario Ave., Niagara Falls

√ Upward Chamber of Commerce: 895 Center St., Lewiston

•Food collection: To ensure our shelves remain stocked throughout the season, we are accepting donations of both holiday-specific and everyday pantry items. This year, over 300 families signed up for Thanksgiving, and we anticipate a similar number for Christmas.

•Monetary contributions: The holiday appeal also includes a call for financial donations to sustain our programs. Every dollar helps us provide food, resources, and critical support to those who need it most.

A vision for the future

While the holiday appeal focuses on addressing immediate needs, it also supports the foundation for our future plans. Thanks to the generosity of our community, Heart, Love & Soul continues to expand its services and deepen its commitment to helping Niagara Falls families thrive.

This season of giving offers a chance to make a meaningful difference. Whether through donating toys, contributing pantry items, or making a financial gift, your support brings hope, joy and comfort to those who need it most.

For more information on how to donate or get involved, visit our website at HeartLoveAndSoul.org. Together, we can ensure no one is left behind this holiday season.