St Tammany Project Christmas is a 501c3 charitable corporation which operates on donations of money and gifts from public and private agencies, businesses, churches, civic organizations and individuals.
St. Tammany Project Christmas was established in 2002 to give needy children in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana a complete Christmas. Along with gifts for the children, the family receives food, including a gift certificate for a ham, or turkey to share for their family's Christmas meal. Children are accepted for the program if their families qualify under Federal poverty guidelines and the organization consults with other local charities to avoid duplication of services.
In 2016, over 1,650 children from nearly 650 families and 30 seniors across St. Tammany Parish were adopted with a monetary value of toys and cash donations estimated in excess of $156,000. Over 22,6500 children have received Christmas gifts since the organization’s inception.
How are we different from other programs?
Family focused - Maintaining dignity. For most of us, a special part of our Christmas tradition is about waking to the excitement of Christmas morning, exchanging presents and celebrating with a special meal. Project Christmas isn't just about giving gifts. Project Christmas enables needy families to experience and share Christmas as family. Families pick up their gifts and food baskets several days in advance so their children can be surprised on Christmas Day.
We are stewards who facilitate funds and gifts from the community for Christmas presents and food to persons who meet the guidelines set forth by the organization. We DO NOT provide gifts. we anonymously connect the donating community to the need in the community.
Help to those truly in need. Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating need in order to participate. Applicants also agree not to double-dip by participating in multiple Christmas gift programs. Project Christmas cross checks our recipient list with other programs. If anyone is found to have applied for multiple programs, they are removed from the Project Christmas program.