The Arc of Buncombe County Kicks Off Operation Santa

It’s 90 degrees outside and you might be thinking of baseball games, homegrown tomatoes, and the beach, but the elves at Operation Santa are thinking ahead to winter. Come December, they want to be ready to help local children and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities celebrate the holidays. By starting early they avoid stress and take advantage of sales, making donations go even further. Last year more than 300 people were served by Operation Santa.

The Arc of Buncombe County has supported Operation Santa for 15 years,
filling gift requests from families, group homes, and agencies involved
with low- to moderate-income individuals with intellectual or
developmental disabilities. Each gift is chosen from a “wish list”
created by our clients, and gifts are delivered just before Christmas by
volunteers and staff. Over the years Operation Santa has provided gifts
to thousands of children and adults who have little family or financial
support.

Terry Bellamy, Executive Director of the ARC of Buncombe County, notes
that, “Every year the need gets greater, especially since the economic
downturn. Operation Santa reminds us of the joy of generosity and love,
all year round.”

Funding for Operation Santa comes largely from individual contributions.
Members of the public who would like to help fund Operation Santa are
encouraged to contact the organization.

The mission of The Arc of Buncombe County is to empower individuals with
intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Operating locally for
more than 50 years, the Arc achieves its mission by helping clients and
families realize their highest potential through advocacy, education,
programming, and family support.