What is Affordable Christmas?
Affordable Christmas is more than a seasonal toy drive, it’s an opportunity to restore dignity
and hope to families in need. We invite low-income parents, referred by local Southaven
schools, to shop for brand-new, deeply discounted Christmas gifts for their children. Rather
than receiving handouts, parents purchase gifts at roughly 1/10th the retail cost, empowering
them to give generously and joyfully to their own children.
Affordable Christmas reflects the biblical truth that people are not projects to fix, but image-
bearers to walk with. At REACHDesoto, we believe in restoring broken relationships—with God,
self, others, and creation. Affordable Christmas is one way we pursue that kind of lasting
transformation.
Why it matters?
Families living in material poverty often carry unseen burdens: shame, powerlessness, and
broken systems that isolate and discourage. Well-meaning charity can sometimes deepen the
divide. But when we offer help in a way that affirms a person’s God-given dignity and capacity,
we reflect Christ, and we restore what’s been lost.
Affordable Christmas:
-Supports families without creating dependence.
- Affirms parents as providers.
- Brings joy to children through gifts from the people who love them most.
How It Works
-Families are referred through school partners:
Hope Sullivan, Greenbrook, Southaven Elementary, and Southaven Intermediate.
-Parents are able to shop for children in their immediate household.
-We collect new toys and gifts, which are priced affordably.
-Parents shop for their children in a dignified, welcoming, and festive setting.
-Volunteers serve behind the scenes—setting up, assisting, and celebrating each family.