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WASHINGTON, D.C.—December 16, 2024—Central Union Mission is spreading the joy of Christmas to children in need across the Washington, D.C., area and, for the first time, into Northern Virginia. Over the next three days, the Mission will host its annual Operation Christmas Miracle event, distributing gifts to hundreds of children at its Comprehensive Family Resource Center on Bladensburg Road in Washington, D.C., and at its newly established Mission: NOVA location in Arlington, VA.
This year marks the Mission’s first Operation Christmas Miracle event at Mission: NOVA, a milestone in its expanded outreach. By bringing this cherished tradition to Northern Virginia, the Mission aims to meet the growing needs of the community while delivering hope and joy to struggling families.
A Legacy of Love Since 1925
Operation Christmas Miracle has been a hallmark of Central Union Mission’s service since 1925, when First Lady Grace Coolidge personally distributed Christmas gifts to children in need. Nearly a century later, the Mission continues this tradition, offering gifts and the message of love and hope found in Jesus Christ.
“No Child Should Be Left Out at Christmas”
“Operation Christmas Miracle brings Christmas joy to struggling families in the DMV,” said Joseph Mettimano, President & CEO of Central Union Mission. “With the contributions of our caring community, we can help children experience firsthand the kindness that they can model in their own lives. No child should be left out at Christmas. We’re especially thrilled to now bring this tradition to Northern Virginia at Mission: NOVA.”
The impact of this program is felt deeply by families like Jennifer’s. A single mother and program recipient, Jennifer shared, “It’s important that I will be able to give my children a good Christmas, and I know I can rely on the Mission to help me.”
Media Opportunities
The Mission invites members of the media to attend and witness the joy of Operation Christmas Miracle. RSVP is requested.
For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Joshua Kinney
Communications Director, Central Union Mission
Phone: 484-557-1601
Email: jkinney@missiondc.org
PHOTO and INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES
Available at the Comprehensive Family Resource Center on December 16 and18, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM and at Mission: NOVA on December 17, from 12:00 – 3:00 PM.
- Mission residents
- Joseph J. Mettimano, President & CEO
- Community members and donors
About Central Union Mission
Central Union Mission, Washington, DC’s oldest private social service agency and a faith-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit, offers a comprehensive array of services to men, women and children in need from DC, Virginia and Maryland. Beyond offering over 60,000 bed-nights annually at its emergency shelter, the Mission’s shelter provides a full suite of transformational programs. Our Comprehensive Family Resource Center provides food and clothing to approximately 5,000 individuals monthly, as well as transformative wrap-around services. Our Mission: NOVA center in south Arlington provides critically needed social services, as well as food and clothing. All three facilities use a co-located service model providing onsite job training/placement, education, help with addictions, ESL classes, parenting classes, healthcare, assistance to veterans and senior citizens, legal aid, assistance with housing, spiritual discipleship and more. Additionally, the Mission operates a camp for underprivileged children and a 24-bed transition home. Our reputation is reflected in our four-star rating from Charity Navigator, Platinum Seal for financial transparency from Candid, and Top-Rated award from GreatNonProfits.
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