Ozark, Mo. – Christian County Cares, a local nonprofit that provides Christmas gifts for children in need, is confronting an unprecedented surge in demand. In the first eight days of its application window, the organization logged 185 requests, while only 15 children have been fully sponsored so far.
Why the spike?
Vice President Jennifer Gosney explained that the program now serves children through age 18, a broader age range than many similar agencies that stop at 13 or 14. “I’ve heard of some other agencies that are not doing teens, so I think that’s why we are seeing an increase of the number of kids from that 14‑to‑18‑year range,” Gosney said. She added that other groups are cutting back due to limited funding, leaving more families to turn to Christian County Cares.
Space constraints and new location
To accommodate the growing need, the board recently moved operations into the American Print Products building, which donated the space. Board member Matt Wardle noted that the move was necessary because the original location could soon be outgrown.
Donor shortage amid family financial pressure
Gosney warned that the organization may not be able to sustain the application process without additional donors. “People are struggling to make ends meet for themselves and their families,” she said. “I think they’re being hit up by multiple agencies to help, and I think people just are hesitant to spend the money right now.”
The nonprofit emphasizes that every child should receive a Christmas present they asked for. “I want to make sure that every child has a Christmas present under the tree and something that they ask Santa for,” Gosney added.
How to help
Christian County Cares is seeking both monetary contributions and new‑toy donations. Interested donors can reach the organization through its website or by emailing [email protected]. The group hopes that a surge of community generosity will allow it to meet its goal of assisting 300 children this holiday season.
Community impact
Local families and churches have historically rallied around the program, viewing it as a tangible expression of Christian compassion and a way to support traditional families during the festive season. By ensuring that children across Ozark receive gifts, the initiative reinforces the community’s shared values of faith, family, and individual liberty.
As the deadline approaches, organizers stress the urgency of donor support. “It’s a little discouraging. It’s just hard,” Gosney said, urging residents to consider contributing now so that no child is left without a holiday gift.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
