About JMU Holiday Helpers

Holiday Helpers is a student-led organization at James Madison University with a simple goal: to bring joy, comfort, and hope to families in need across Virginia. Since our founding in 2024, we’ve been working to provide children with not only essentials like clothing, school supplies, and hygiene items, but also the little extras — toys, gifts, and special moments — that remind them they are seen and loved. What began as a small group of students has grown into a family of volunteers, community partners, and supporters all committed to making sure no child feels forgotten.

We believe every child deserves to feel celebrated and cared for, no matter their family’s circumstances. Whether it’s Christmas morning, a birthday, the start of a school year, or a difficult season, we strive to lift burdens and replace uncertainty with joy, love, and hope.

Our motto guides us in everything we do: Unwrap Hope. Donate Joy. Spread Love. Through every toy drive, community event, and act of kindness, we are working to brighten lives and remind families they are never alone.

2024

Kids Impacted

Club Originated

82

woman wearing yellow long-sleeved dress under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

Holiday Helpers was such a blessing to my family. They reached out to me at a time I needed support most, and from the very beginning, they showed genuine care and empathy for my situation. They took the time to listen to boht my eants and needs, and the experience was nothing short of uplifting. It truly warmed my heart to see my son receive not only the things he wished for, but also the essentials he needed for christmas. I am forever grateful to Holiday Helpers for stepping in during such a difficult time. Their time and generosity are truly making a difference in the lives of families like mine

C. Green

smiling boy wearing white crew-neck t-shirt during daytime
smiling boy wearing white crew-neck t-shirt during daytime

The holiday Helpers program is amazing. I was so blessed to have my family selected for the Easter holiday help. Each of my kids got a beautifully put together easter basket, packed full of goodies they loved, as well as ESSENTIALS. I can’t thank them enough as this really saved me.

C. King

black cupcake
black cupcake
★★★★★
★★★★★