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Operation True Giving: Giving to the less fortunate

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Maldonado
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The holiday season is right around the corner, families sending and receiving gifts eagerly waiting for that special day, but what about the families who are less fortunate?

For the last 31 years Operation True Giving, a non-profit organization, has assisted less fortunate families. In 1984 the Shaw Catholic faith community sought to aid families at not only the Shaw, but the Sumter, South Carolina, community.

"We have sponsors and we have organizations downtown that provide families names of those who are in need," said Michelle Vance, chair of operation of Operation True Giving committee. "We go through our first sergeants to assist with our families on base."

The program entails approximately 115 volunteers who give more than 4,600 hours of volunteer service.

"This year Operation True Giving will help 83 families have a brighter Christmas by providing; food, clothing, and many great gifts," said Chaplain (Maj.) Richard Holmes, 20th Fighter Wing deputy wing chaplain.

Supporters from the Shaw faith community signs up and sponsors a family, by providing a Christmas meal and at least one new gift.

Sponsors and donator's however are not limited to solely one gift and meal.

"All of my sponsors sign up and really get into the program," said Frances Watson, family coordinator for Operation True Giving. "These people really go beyond and above. Thank God they were able to do this and give to the less fortunate."

Operation True Giving intends to remain true to its character and will continue their selfless aid to families for years to come by providing food, clothing, gifts, and most importantly holiday cheer.