We share holiday joy with local teenagers who may otherwise miss out.
Be the connection.
Located in Columbus, OH and available to residents of Franklin County.
Every family has their own unique strengths and challenges.
Sometimes parents must work multiple jobs to make ends meet and illness, incarceration, or other family emergencies can have a devastating impact on the family system. Teenagers may have to help with childcare and housework while they try to juggle school and a social life.
The price of everything has gone up and sometimes when families are struggling financially, young people turn to unconventional, risky ways of making money.
Being a teenager is tough enough!
There are many agencies who do an excellent job of linking families with young children to holiday relief, but those who are twelve to eighteen are often forgotten. Gifting Youth Joy is 501c3 non-profit organization that connects youth with holiday gifts through donations and fundraising. We run on love and the kindness of others. As much as we would like to help every family, we can only take on a limited amount. Please see application instructions below.
Our Team
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Eryca Rivera
President
I am a Sales Manager who has volunteered with youth and adults at a local domestic violence shelter. I also act as a liaison between the non-profit and our retail sponsors.
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Eleanor Church
Treasurer
I’m a Qualified Mental Health Specialist who works with people struggling with severe mental health issues that are impacted significantly by poverty. I also facilitate women empowerment support groups.
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Ziggy Cicchella
Secretary
I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker in private practice and I empower my clients through individual therapy, creative arts, job readiness training, and linkage to resources.
Do I Qualify for Gifting Youth Joy?
“Do I live in Franklin County?”
Yes - We cannot give in other counties at this time.
“Do I have a financial or family hardship?”
Yes - My family has deeply lost income or support this year.
“Is my age between 12 to 18?”
Yes - I am older than 11 and younger than 19.
“Do I qualify for other resources or benefits?”
Yes - I receive SSDI, medicaid, SNAP, WIC, housing assistance, etc.
How to apply for Gifting Youth Joy
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1. Complete application
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2. Schedule intake interview
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3. Arrange pickup or delivery of gifts
Gifting Youth Joy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, HIV, marital, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.
Privacy Policy: Gifting Youth Joy will not share your information with any other person or entity. Gifting Youth Joy is HIPAA compliant and will only use your information for the purpose of selecting gifts for your teen and delivering the gifts to you.