The Urban Exchange Story
It was 2005 and a few days before Christmas. We sat at lunch complaining that we bought too much and pondered the real meaning of Christmas. When the coffee arrived we were feeling a bit hollow. Rather than cancel Christmas, we were determined to find a local family in need.
- As an Intensive Supervision Program Officer, we knew Terry worked with underprivileged Passaic County families. What we never expected; however, was that she would drop everything to fulfill our small dream. Without hesitation, she identified the perfect family; a recently reunited family living in a one bedroom apartment with 4 children (ages 10-15). Mona had just returned from an unsuccessful trip to the local Rent a Center hoping she could rent an Xbox video system to surprise her kids for Christmas. She knew it was an extravagance, but moms at Christmas are not rational.
That Christmas Eve, Lucy and Alison brought their 6 kids to Costco. Filling carts with food and clothes (and yes, the Xbox), we caravaned with Terry to Paterson and played Santa Claus. The 3 families embraced in their small, but immaculate one bedroom apartment. That day we all found the meaning of Christmas! - As we gathered outside saying our goodbyes and thanking Terry for the experience, the kids asked how Mona and her family were able to furnish their apartment. Terry laughed and explained that most of the furnishings were donations from families just like us. She joked how her garage was full of gently used furniture from her friends and family.
And so we began ....