This holiday season, thousands of North Texas families are finding hope and relief through the efforts of Seasons of Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families in crisis.
Based in Arlington, Texas, the organization has made an incredible impact, ensuring struggling families enjoy a brighter Christmas. The nonprofit’s annual Christmas Collaboganza event transforms lives by providing essentials like toys, clothing, and food, all while connecting families with long-term social services, WFAA reported.
For founder Tavian Harris, this mission is deeply personal.
“This was birthed out of my own experiences being a teen mom and not having enough resources,” Harris told WFAA.
Harris’s journey from a young mother lacking support to a community leader has been a driving force behind Seasons of Change’s success.
Her nonprofit not only meets immediate needs but also addresses systemic issues. This year’s event marked a historic milestone, celebrating the nonprofit’s 1,000,000th client served.
The impact is evident in the stories of families like Liza Salinas and her children, who have faced homelessness but are now rebuilding their lives. “We’ve been through some really hard times,” Salinas said. “Now, we are moving on up.” These transformations highlight the life-changing power of community-driven initiatives.
At the heart of Seasons of Change’s holiday event is a unique shopping experience that gives families the dignity of choice. Parents and children can select from an array of toys, household essentials, and clothing.
Volunteers also provide fresh food and connect attendees with crucial housing, employment, and mental health support resources.
Harris emphasized the importance of offering “a hand up, not a handout,” reflecting the organization’s commitment to empowering families rather than merely addressing their immediate needs. The dedication of hundreds of volunteers ensures that this mission continues to thrive.
The need for such services in Arlington is significant. According to recent U.S. Census data, over 13% of Arlington residents live in poverty, with rates as high as 24.4% in specific ZIP codes.