Giving the Gift of Christmas Lights

Did you know that countless children, both in Charlotte and across the country, have never seen Christmas light displays? Many children long to see these gorgeous lights that incite the magic of the season, and their parents would love the opportunity to experience this magical outing with their children. But the reality for many children in wheelchairs is that Christmas lights are not part of the holiday season, despite their desires and wishes. For many kids, reliable transportation that keeps them safe in their wheelchairs is not something they have access to. This means it isn’t feasible or even safe to go to look at Christmas lights the way many of us do.

The Magic and the Memories

Do you remember the first time you saw a Christmas light display that took your breath away? Perhaps it was a nearby home that had gone above and beyond with decorations, or maybe it was a drive-through light show that was created by professionals. It might have had music to go along with the twinkling lights, or maybe there were several beautifully lit holiday characters. If you’ve had a magical experience like this that made your heart leap with joy and filled you with Christmas spirit, then you know how incredible it is to be able to enjoy something like this.

Now think about taking your kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, or other little ones on a Christmas light adventure. Maybe you drive through neighborhoods or go see a gigantic light display at a state park. Think of the magic in their eyes and all their excited “oohs” and “aahs” at the different displays. Think about how excited they get when they see Santa, a snowman, or a huge Christmas tree decked out in lights.

Now take a moment to count your blessings. Be grateful for your healthy children and the opportunities you have all had to enjoy the adventure of Christmas light displays year after year.

Bringing the Magic to Those Who Need It Most

We long to give the gift of safe, reliable transportation so that parents can get their kids to life-changing appointments and ordinary outings that will thrill and excite these sweet families in huge ways.

It’s such a simple thing—to go see Christmas lights. Many children that we’ve spoken with have shared that their desire for a wheelchair van is about doing simple things like this. They don’t want to go to Disney World or to the beach or anywhere elaborate. They want to go to the grocery store, to their grandparent’s house, or to see Christmas lights. They want to experience the typical things that other kids experience, and they want to do it safely and without fear of a car breaking down or being uncomfortably buckled into a seat that isn’t appropriate for them.

We don’t share this to shame you or make you feel bad about your blessings. Instead, we want to offer some perspective and show you how blessed you truly are. We know everyone has their own struggles and we would never assume someone’s life is easier or simpler than those that we serve. We simply want to shed light on this significant need in our community and call attention to the importance of always being grateful, even for the small things.

As the year comes to a close, don’t miss your opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who long for what you consider ordinary, such as taking a drive to see Christmas lights. Your donation can have a big impact in our community as we aim to give wheelchair vans to families in need. Would you partner with us this year to give the gift of Christmas lights?  Contact us now or make a donation to help bring hope to those who need it most.