by Mary Greendale
11/26/2018

Sponsor a local child and provide holiday gifts in support of the efforts of Jonathan and Leslie Gerber of Holliston. Spread joy to those who need help! 

Twelve years ago the Gerbers launched the Holiday Dreams Foundation to bring happy memories and holiday presents to 25 children in the area. This year their goal is to fill the wishlists of 1,200 kids in Framingham, Holliston, Allston, Brighton, through the Jewish Family Services, Holliston Youth & Family Services, Temple Beth Torah, and the Department of Children and Families.

Sometimes adults get a little jaded about the season - but not the Gerbers. Their home is packed with toys, clothes, the practical and the fun. They sort, package, wrap, and prepare everything for delivery. 

Catherine Tehan has helped the Foundation in the past, but this year she is able to expand her efforts and decided to do the publicity for the Holiday Dreams. "I think it is incredible that there are so many within this small community that would have no opportunity for a gift during holidays, and it's such a relief for their families; they don’t have to worry or feel guilty."

Catherine describes the Gerbers as "very giving people" who sponsor many children personally and help in many ways. For example, they provide the snacks in the nurses' offices in Holliston schools.

The Gerbers and their elves hope you will sponsor a child by going to the Foundation's website – http://holidaydreamsfoundation.com/ - and adopt a child for the holiday, or if you prefer, you can donate directly. If you sponsor, you will be given "a wish list" (provided by a parent or guidance counselor), that will offer a glimpse into the chilld's life. Then you shop, drop the presents off, and volunteers deliver. The parents or volunteers do the gift wrapping.

The Foundation is a 501c3 so your donations are tax deductible. Hurry though!! The deadline to drop off your gifts is Decembr 18th. Let's do it!!