What We Do
-
Giving Hope Charity started during the 2020 Christmas season, when staff from Mount Vernon City Schools’ transportation and maintenance departments came together to support families struggling through the pandemic. They organized a holiday experience for six elementary students, each receiving a $200 shopping spree. A decorated school bus sleigh, volunteer elves, and Santa made the day magical. Many children even chose to buy gifts for their families, showing the power of kindness in difficult times.
-
Inspired by that first event, the group officially launched Giving Hope Charity as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2021. With increased fundraising, the number of students served grew from six to twenty, now including children from kindergarten through 12th grade. One memorable moment included a homeless student using her funds to purchase basic necessities for her family—reminding us why this mission matters.
-
In 2022, the charity expanded again—providing Christmas gifts to 20 children at the Children’s Resource Center and increasing the Walmart shopping spree to 36 students, each receiving $250. The signature reindeer-themed bus returned, and many children once again chose gifts for loved ones. What began as a small act of kindness has grown into a community tradition that continues to bring hope, joy, and purpose to children every holiday season.
W.O.W. BUS (Words on Wheels)
In 2022, Giving Hope Charity launched a new initiative to support the young people in our community. We acquired an old school bus, which we're transforming into a mobile book haven—a book bus! This bus will travel through local neighborhoods during the summer months, offering children free books to encourage reading and learning. Our goal is to help students maintain their reading skills over the break, preventing the summer slide and ensuring they return to school with continued academic growth. Best of all, the books are completely free for children to keep, empowering them with the resources to explore new stories and ideas.
Our Mission
Giving Hope Charity empowers children in Knox County by creating joyful, memorable experiences that inspire confidence, purpose, and hope.
Through community-driven programs and events, we uplift youth facing economic and social challenges—ensuring every child knows they are seen, valued, and capable of a bright future.
Our Vision
A community where every child experiences the joy, support, and inspiration needed to reach their full potential.
We envision a future where no child is left behind due to circumstance—where moments of hope become stepping stones to lifelong growth and purpose.