Caring For Others Kicks Off the Holidays Early with “Christmas in September”
“Every year, we see more families quietly worrying about how they’ll make the holidays special for their children. Christmas in September is our way of saying: we see you, and we’re here to help lift that weight.”
-Dr. Eslene Richmond-Shockley, Founder, President and CEO, Caring For Others
NOTE - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL OCTOBER 17, 2026 DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER
ATLANTA, September 10, 2026 - With household budgets stretched thinner than ever this year, thousands of Atlanta families are already wondering how they'll manage the holidays.
Christmas in September is a heartwarming program by Caring For Others that brings joy and support to families in need during challenging times.
Through this initiative, Caring For Others kicks off the holiday season by distributing thousands of toys to area families, ensuring they can experience the warmth and togetherness of the holiday season, and that no children wake up on Christmas morning without presents under the tree. Christmas in September is a time of compassion and lasting memories for families in need. As the community counts down to the most wonderful time of the year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Many families are already feeling the weight of the season ahead, unsure how they will cover rent, groceries, and everyday necessities, let alone gifts for their children. Caring For Others is answering that call, stepping in early so no parent has to choose between putting food on the table and giving their child a Christmas morning to remember.
“Every year, we see more families quietly worrying about how they’ll make the holidays special for their children,” said Dr. Richmond-Shockley. “Christmas in September is our way of saying: we see you, and we’re here to help lift that weight.”
Caring For Others’ “Christmas in September” initiative continues to illuminate the lives of more than a thousand families annually, spreading love, joy, and kindness all year round.
This Christmas, Caring For Others is challenging the community — individually and in their own homes — to make a difference in a unique way: to step out of their comfort zone and extend their blessings to those in need.
Volunteers will walk alongside families hand in hand throughout the event, helping parents select toys and gifts so every child has something special to open on Christmas morning.
WHAT: Christmas in September – Annual Toy Distribution & Holiday Celebration
WHEN: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
WHERE: 3537 Browns Mill Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30354
WHO: Caring For Others, Dr. Eslene Richmond-Shockley, area families, children, and volunteers
About Caring For Others
Caring For Others is an Atlanta-based, international human services organization founded by Dr. Eslene Richmond-Shockley. Its mission is to help those without the basic necessities to live with dignity and to give those in need a second chance for a better quality of life. Programs include Global Food Giveaways, Disaster Relief, No Bare Soles, Scholarships, the First Impression Program, the International Poverty Forum, and Christmas in September. Learn more at CaringForOthersInc.org.
