10,000 Palm Beach Kids Get Holiday Gifts This Year

While most of us haven't even thought about holiday shopping yet, volunteers in West Palm Beach are already wrapping thousands of Christmas gifts for children who might otherwise go without.

Back to Basics has launched its Angel Program for another year, preparing to deliver new sneakers, socks, underwear, and toys to more than 10,000 Palm Beach County kids this holiday season. The nonprofit starts months early because the need is simply that big.

"We work directly with the schools to provide gifts for kids in need throughout Palm Beach County," said Kelly Enriquez, the organization's executive director. The program reaches children at more than 60 schools across the county.

Here's how it works: about 7,000 children get "adopted" by community members, local businesses, and civic groups who purchase and deliver gifts for specific kids. The nonprofit handles the remaining 3,000 children in-house with donated items and volunteer help.

The Ripple Effect

Back to Basics doesn't stop at Christmas. The organization just completed its annual school uniform drive, providing approximately 20,000 uniforms to students who need them.

"Many of the children who go to school are required to have uniforms, and they just don't have the financial wherewithal to do that," said board member Mike O'Dell. Those uniforms mean kids can show up to school with confidence and focus on learning instead of worrying about what they're wearing.

The holiday program offers something even more valuable than material items. It teaches the next generation about generosity. Parents can involve their own children in adopting an angel, showing them firsthand the joy of giving to others.

Community support makes everything possible. Without local residents stepping up to adopt children or donate time and resources, thousands of kids would face a much different holiday season.

Anyone interested can sign up to adopt an angel through the Back to Basics website or volunteer to help sort and wrap gifts as the season approaches.