Aiken Community Christmas Card Initiative Surpasses $8,000 in Donations for Local Schools

Aiken Community Christmas Card Raises Over $8,000 for Local Schools

Aiken, South Carolina – The Aiken community came together on January 25, 2024, to support local students as the Aiken Standard presented a donation check for $8,103 to the Aiken County Public School District during a school board meeting. This amount, which marks an increase from previous years, stems from the Community Christmas Card initiative aimed at helping students in need across the district.

Who is involved?

The donation presentation featured notable figures including John Boyette, the executive editor of the Aiken Standard, and King Laurence, the superintendent of Aiken County Public Schools. This partnership is a testament to the commitment of local media and educational leaders to support community welfare.

What is the Community Christmas Card?

The Community Christmas Card, now in its eighth year, is a charitable effort where community members make small donations that collectively create a significant impact. These funds are allocated across schools in the Aiken County Public School District to provide essential services and supplies to students who require assistance.

Where and When it all Happens

The funds raised through this initiative are facilitated by donations from locals, which can be make through multiple channels including online contributions, mailed donations, or by phone. The deadline for contributions was set for December 15, making it clear that timely action from the community was crucial to achieving the year’s fundraising goals.

Why it Matters

“Aiken Standard readers and area businesses have donated thousands of dollars to this fund since we launched it in 2017,” said Boyette, highlighting the continuous community engagement in this cause. The initiative exemplifies how even small donations of $1 can make a significant difference in a child’s life, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

This year’s donation amount of $8,103 surpasses last year’s total of $2,277, reflecting the community’s growing support and commitment to local education. The funds collected will be used by school counselors to assist students in need, ensuring that financial hardships do not hinder their educational journeys.

How the Community Can Contribute

• Donate online by visiting the designated website.
• Mail their donations along with legibly written names for the card to the Aiken Standard’s office.
• Call the Aiken Standard office directly during business hours to make a contribution.

Every contribution received goes directly towards a fund that is accessible to school counselors when they identify students in need, underscoring the initiative’s focus on targeted support.

Conclusion

The Community Christmas Card not only serves as a fundraising tool but also fosters a spirit of unity and collective responsibility within Aiken. By showing up for our students, the community is creating lasting impacts that go far beyond financial aid. The hope is that as awareness grows, more community members will feel encouraged to participate in what has become a beloved local tradition.