Our Vision
Our vision is to create a lasting impact by offering the gift of hope to our fellow community members in need. By coming together as a community, we aim to not only transform the lives of others but also undergo personal transformation. Embracing accountability is fundamental to our mission. Our goal is to empower those in need, providing essential resources such as food, clothing, haircuts, empowerment classes, cooking and craft workshops, holiday support, as well as access to housing, medical care, and counseling referrals. Through our programs, we aspire to help each individual discover the inner strength to unleash their innate potential and capabilities, fostering community rebuilding and growth.
Our History
Gifts Of Hope was established by Samona J. Burleson in October 2017, prompted by her firsthand observations of the homelessness crisis in Seattle, WA, which affected over 14,000 people, including its impact on children. Recognizing the community's genuine desire to help but with limited concrete opportunities, GOH became the pioneering organization to create a Christmas Wishlist at the Othello Village Tiny House Camp in South Seattle. Samona extended her outreach to schools, shelters, camps, and low-income housing residents.
The initial objective was to support a minimum of 50 individuals for Christmas. However, by December 13th, 2017, over 500 people had been "adopted" for Christmas. This support extended beyond the holiday season, offering assistance throughout the year with initiatives such as providing backpacks for students, offering free haircuts, organizing birthday parties for children, paying off school tabs, and more. In 2018, over 6000 individuals in Seattle received our assistance. Our impact has continued to expand, with both our donor base and the number of families supported quadrupling as we approach the 8th Annual Christmas Assistance Program anniversary!
Our Team
Our exceptional Gifts Of Hope team is a vibrant community of volunteers representing diverse backgrounds, religions, and nationalities. Despite our differences, we are united by our shared dedication to uplifting others. We believe in the contagious nature of giving – knowing that it not only impacts the recipients, but also has the power to transform the giver. We understand that a gift has the incredible ability to open doors for all involved. You didn't arrive at this site by chance. Your presence here is meaningful. We invite you to join us, get involved, and share your unique gift. Together, let's continue to spread hope and make a positive difference in the lives of those in need.
Join Our Cause
"Join our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals in our communities. Your support can bring hope, opportunities, and essential resources to those in need.
Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone. By making a donation through our website, you are directly contributing to positive change and helping us continue our vital work.
Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact. Join us today in building a more inclusive and supportive community for all. Together, we can make a difference that lasts a lifetime."
