I was so poor that I bought my kids one "big" present (no more than $20) and 12 dollar store presents so they'd have a lot under the tree on Christmas morning. I saved all year, a dollar here and a dollar there, I paid only part of my bills in winter so that I could afford that and a nice dinner. When anyone gave my kids anything, they wrote "thank-you" notes and we felt blessed by each item no matter how small. The world can be a kind place.
@@mariecurie7840 I love 💗 that you are teaching your kids to be grateful, it really goes a long way. I also have to remind my kids to show gratitude because it’s essential. I pray that things get better for you and your kids.
When I take those Angel Tree or Secret Santa wishes, I look for ones where they are asking for warm mittens, boots, gloves, a coat, or really simple things. I always include a toy or two on my own. If someone is asking for expensive stuff. I figure if someone is asking for major items then they probably have what they need already.
Same. It tends to look like a money grab when they ask for the latest gaming systems and Gucci purses. Parents need to tell their kids not choose items that are more like $20-30 instead of someone's rent payment.
Yeah, that makes a lot of sense to think about it that way. The essentials and a couple of toys is always a good thing. It's the parent's job to set the expectation and not set the kids up for possible disappointment because what kid wouldn't want the latest and greatest things on their Christmas wish list.
The angel tree in the last 10 years has turned into a scheme. For parents to get their kids more presents. I grew up with angel tree a few years cuz my parents were very poor and it is a blessing and I was always grateful.
I didn't even get that as a kid. We were so poor, when we didn't have money to get anything at all, I would hide one of my brother's toys and he'd hide one of mine (that we already owned) and then give each other a map to find the toy. Following the instructions and "going on an adventure" searching was the gift. On a good year, I'd get clothes and school supplies. I rarely got a new toy.
@@desktopkitty823 that was so creative “going on an adventure” and I think a lot of times when we didn’t have the resources or money growing up we made due with what we had, we had no choice but to be creative. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊
I see shoes, socks, hats, gloves, 2 balls, 2 sets of Matchbox cars, playdoh and something else. Did she have zero $ of her own to spend? What did she want? I'm tired of people. So much selfishness and entitlement, lack of respect...😥
@@gmfutube it appears that some of the recipients wanted electronics, but not everyone can afford that right now, so they purchased what they could on the list. Some are debating if they should have even taken the tag off the tree if they couldn’t afford to fulfill the whole wishlist. You’re right the attitude needs to change to one of gratitude and not entitlement. 💯
@@BoldBeginningsNow Not sure if this is true or not but I've heard that when tags are left on the tree and never taken or tags are taken by someone but the gifts are never delivered that gifts will be pulled from the others so that all of the Angels will get something for Christmas. If a kid puts down a bunch of expensive electronics, asks for a new bike and expensive designer athletic shoes it's possible that no one felt able to take their tag or they took it and had some kind of emergency (car repair, furnace stopped working, etc) and were unable to shop for their Angel so volunteers pulled some less expensive toys to at least give the child something.
Everyone should be great for what they got. They didn't have to get anything. I got it this year because my daughter's father lost his job and she was happy with what she got. Be grateful for what you have
@Ainsleighsnotmeanbutnice I love that they were able to step in to give to your family. I’m glad your daughter was happy for Christmas! Best wishes to you and your family! ❤️
I grew up very poor, there were years we didn't have a phone or a TV, and we wore hand-me-downs, and ate a lot of beans and rice. My mama, bless her, made us presents. I still have a crocheted dog puppet and clothes she made for me for Christmas; she'd save every penny to buy things out of the bargain bin to make us stuff. We were all very grateful for the help we got from friends, family and the community, and I give now whenever I can.
@@maghurt I love this! This made me think of the times my mom would make our clothes and we would go to the fabric store to pick out the patterns we wanted and the actual fabric we wanted for our clothes. These are core memories that will be cherished for sure. Thank you so much for sharing and for continuing to give back! 🫶🏽
@BoldBeginningsNow Thank you! Those may have been lean times, but I feel that going through them made me stronger and happier, and to value what really matters. I hope you have a wonderful New Year's, ❤️
Some lady on Nextdoor complained that her neighbors ruined her kids Christmas because they didn’t get enough gifts. Good heavens these people are nuts.
Our church has a 'Christmas Toy Shop' where parents/custodial grandparents signed based on criteria. Trees were put out in the church with some general suggestions (earphones, toys, $25 max) and some specific requests if any were given at sign-up (a specific educational toy) and members of the church could buy a toy or just donated and the high school youth went on a group shopping trip. On the day of the Toy Shop the parent/custodial grandparent came and shopped for 2 toys per child and paid $1 for each. They also got socks, canned foods donated by the pre-school kids, either an appropriate age book or a child's Bible and a food voucher from a local-owned grocery store. Last year there were 109 children served. This year it was over 200. Most of the shoppers expressed thanks and gratitude. BUT- the organizers learned from years past to use a permanent marker to mark through the USP code, since a few years ago at least 2 shoppers were seen taking the toys back to be returned for money. Granted, they may have needed the money but that was not the reason for the toy shop, their kids.
That sounds like a really organized way to do and it also helps the families requesting the assistance set the expectations for their children. Thanks for sharing!
I raised my kids to understand that Christmas is for giving and not about receiving a room full of gifts. My kids were taught to make gifts to give to others (teachers, friends, neighbors) whether it was a homemade card, a craft item, baking cookies, or doing a service like shoveling sidewalks for an older neighbor. They learned that their "gifts" didn't have to be purchased from a store, and they learned to recognize the gifts that they received from others that came without wrapping paper. Perhaps it was a classmate who reached out in friendship when they were new in class, or a friend who shared their lunch when they forgot theirs. There is no reason why families should spend half a year paying off credit card debt to pay for Christmas gifts.
@@jgirl18515 and these acts of kindness will get passed down to their children! 🙌🏽 These are some great examples of gifts that don’t cost money and they come from the heart! Love it!❤️
@@daniellehadleyministries yes we do choose what to focus on and sometimes we can get stuck there depending on our circumstances. Thankfully, we can change our thoughts day by day and moment by moment. 😊
Last year, my work was doing a promotion for a similar charity where you can go online and read a child's letter to Santa with their gift requests. I didn't/don't have a lot of money because I am a student and only working part time. Well, let me tell you, I gave up trying to donate after reading several letters. TVs, Xboxes, tablets, designer items, etc. Some cost $500 or more. These parents apparently can't afford ANYTHING for Christmas, but they felt no compunction about letting their kid ask a stranger for gifts that cost $500+. I'm sure, if I'd dug through, I would have found some that listed items that cost more like $20-50. But I honestly was so disgusted that parents wouldn't have their kids put maybe 1 big item, but mostly smaller things. IMO, these parents failed twice. Not only were they unable to provide for their kids (which could be due to circumstances outside their control), but they also failed to give the kid a realistic expectation. Most of those kids probably got nothing because people can't afford an extra $500 in their Christmas budget.
Exactly, that's the sad part, the kids going without because of the expensive requests instead of a realistic one. And you're right the parents have to set the expectations. One other person said that to possibly assist the parents understand as well would be for the charity to set a max budget which is a good idea. I may have given up too if I only saw expensive items, so I completely understand. At least you were willing to participate which shows your kindness. Thank you for sharing!
It will be sad if people stop giving bc of this. I have no family and I am on a small fixed income. I do without things that I want and sometimes need bc it's important to me to share. I give in every way that I can. I have to remember that I'm doing it bc it's the right thing to do. I have been helped, I want to help others. I know how grateful I was so I concentrate on that. How sad it is with a stack of gifts - and the phone to make videos - to publicly complain that you weren't given enough.
@@sandy-pf9bb it would be sad indeed! It’s so kind of you to share and help others. And yes, the public declaration is what makes it worse. Hopefully they will have a change of heart going forward. Gratitude is the attitude! 💯
I pulled a child from the angel tree this Christmas. I spent more money on that child than I did my own. But these videos are making me not want to pull a name next year.
@@lillianbrooks5129 thank you for donating! There were some positive reactions that I added to one of my videos, so don’t let these negative ones deter you, but it is understandable how you feel. 💯
I think most people who do the Angel Tree, which I have done at work, do not think they are the only one getting toys for the children. I have done it and typically there is one or two things listed on the tag. My assumption has always been that it is adding to other gifts the children are getting. If you want your kids to get more gifts and can't afford it, I suggests also going to Toys for Tots or signing up at the local church, etc. Alternatively, put money aside throughout the year to buy the gifts yourself.
I agree with you, I have also done Adopt-a-Family and the families that I have donated to normally ask for essentials for the whole family and a few toys for the kids. Toys for Tots is a good suggestion.
I spent as much and bought gifts the same for the Angel Tree recipient as I was buying for my own family. I see all those things and think, wow, such nice gifts and 2 pairs of shoes?!! Lucky kid. Then, people are complaining?! I don't understand because all those things looked great to me. The ball, the toys, the shoes, all very nice gifts. It's hurtful as a giver to hear of the ungratefulness as there was love, money, time, and caring put into those purchases. There were years in the past when my husband would ask what I wanted for Christmas and I told him, I wanted the kids and grandkids to have things to open, and I'd rather have holiday cookies, baking, and a big meal to share than a gift. This year, with his new job and more income, we were able to not only get all our family gifts, but I was so happy to have the extra, and I used what would have been my gift money, to choose an Angel from the Angel Tree and spend on someone who otherwise might not get any Christmas gifts. I was so happy I could give someone else something special and send them some love in a pretty wrapper. I told my husband that's what I wanted for Christmas, to give someone else a Merry Christmas too. I really hope that the young lady I shopped for was grateful and happy and felt loved when she opened her things, and not ungrateful like those entitled trolls. I wasn't able to get everything on her wish list, because we had a maximum dollar amount set by the church, but I did my best to ensure she had some nice things to open on Christmas Day.
I am so happy you were able to give someone a Merry Christmas, that was so selfless of you and is very much commendable. Thank you for your kindness and I am happy to hear that your husband was able to provide some extra income due to his new job, that is truly a blessing. It was so surprising to see all of the videos on TikTok with the complaints, but thankfully there were some positive reactions (I added to this video or the other one where I discussed the topic). Thanks again for sharing your thoughts and your Christmas spirit!
Yeah I just cannot understand how people cannot appreciate the people that are helping them when they can't even help themselves. That woman could not afford shoes for her own children somebody provided shoes for her children. And I would be straight embarrassed to be somebody showing my face on the internet coming up and using somebody's kindness against them but that is the modern world we live in it's some kind of weird clout.
As a single mom working for nonprofit organizations in a career in drug treatment, it was challenging just to get by. But we felt rich in many other ways, and being grateful truly is key. I worked hard and graduated university too, was able to stop drugs and alcohol use 30 yrs ago, yay. My daughter and I’ve delivered Angel Tree gifts for incarcerated parents via our church program for years- and I’ve seen the whole spectrum /gamut of attitudes in this regard. But mostly the parent, grandparent or caregiver was happy the child was receiving a gift ‘from’ the parent incarcerated parent. Yet some don’t even say a word of thanks and ask if we can get them other things, ugh.
@@DChristina Congratulations on your sobriety! 🎉👏🏽 And the work you are doing is commendable! As long as the child is happy is all that matters. I’ve also worked in shelters and have seen children be satisfied with a couple of gifts, so it’s really how the parents set their child’s expectations that determine the outcome.
The entitlement in audacity of people these days is beyond disgusting. I would’ve loved to have provided gifts for other people this year, but I had to skip paying my bills for two months for an necessities myself. Everyone is having difficulty economically now and to have people expect others to give them certain gifts is reprehensible and then to go on TikTok and talk about it is beyond words.
@@slbellue6874 Yes, Yes, and Yes! I was grateful for anything I could get when I needed help. It is very hard out here today in this economy, so I really wouldn’t be complaining because money is funny for a lot of folks. So you do have to be grateful that you received anything.
When I first heard about this Angel Tree situation, I thought the complaint was about how some people donate stuff that is broken/stained/etc. because they are too miserly to donate something new/good condition as if just because someone is poor, their kids don't deserve to have a nice Christmas like other kids. These would be the same kind of people that donate expired food because they think poor people shouldn't expect to get the same decent quality food as non-poor folks. But I was not prepared for a video showing a fair amount of apparently new toys, some in original packaging even! So yes, I do agree that the complainer is being ungrateful. Even if her kids HATE those toys(which they might), just say thanks, sell the toys the kids don't like, use the money to buy them something they will like. It's really not that hard to keep from being a jerk as some people make it seem.
Yes that would be a great idea to either regift it or exchange it if the kid doesn't like, but make sure to say thank you and discuss being grateful for everything received. It is a humbling experience to need help from others, but to complain about the help is a whole nother level of ungratefulness. I would keep it to myself if I didn't like something that was donated to me and not go onto a social platform for the world to see because it doesn't have a positive change or impact. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
@@edlynnporter7519 unfortunately you’re right about that! Thankfully, there were some positive responses that I did add to this video or the other one I discussed this topic on.
I can smell her sense of entitlement from here. When I was growing up we were taught to be grateful for what we had. If we received a gift from someone we were always grateful, thanked them, and wrote a thank you note. I can't believe there are people complaining about receiving CHARITY.
Yeah, it’s a little much to complain about receiving things you didn’t have to pay for. And even if the items were things you didn’t like, don’t publicize it, just still show gratitude. Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts!
As a single parent, I struggled I had no child support for one child. Very little child support for the other child. I worked one job full-time and two part-time jobs and I cleaned houses on the weekend. I made enough to buy a small two bedroom house I gave each to my children. The bedrooms and I lived in the laundry room/pantry room and I wouldn’t have let them have any other rooms because the room I was in at the back door and I would not have put a child in a room with a back door or any door outside. I often had to rely on the kindness of others for Christmas and although I never did put my children on the list for the angel tree, I was given many gifts from others both both at my church and my neighborhood as they knew my situation. One neighbor bought my daughter her first bike❤️… because I could only afford one that year. it broke my heart, but it was the best I could do when I look at those children on my angels tree I try to remember my children. I tried to remember what they needed what they wanted and I also know that their children and they want everything everyone else as a child wants Legos are expensive and it breaks my heart when a child sees a game that they want or an Xbox I remember my son wanting one he never got one for me and I told him as a child you will not be getting the things that you think you need you will be getting the things I can afford. And by the way, I was a single white mother … it didn’t make a difference being white I still struggled and I lost my home and ended up homeless like so many other people, white black, yellow, brown, and red. Race does not make you rich just because you’re white and it does not always give you privilege
@@lauriepolden6594 the kindness of strangers goes a long way! The struggles of life are sooo real for so many! As long as the kids are safe and taken care of is the top priority always. It’s always nice to get what we want as kids, but unfortunately that’s not always the case. I have most certainly been there where I needed all of the help I could get. My oldest son wanted so much that I couldn’t afford at the time, but thankfully extended family picked up where I couldn’t. Thank you so much for sharing your experience! 🫶🏽
@@ogmaamgo8970 most definitely! Gratitude is the attitude and once you are grateful for the least of things you will indeed be blessed with more! Thank you! 😊
When I was unemployed for two years, I was on food stamps while going to school and looking for a job. I often had more money than I used in food stamps, so I would take homeless people food shopping with me so they could eat too, or I would buy extra and make them something to eat and bring it down to them at the shopping center. I didn’t feel like that money was mine to hoard and keep. It was a service that was provided to me because I worked my whole life and I should share it.
My kids' school had a gift tree, but my daughter noticed very quickly that every person on the tree asked for the exact same items. I think it was PJs, a book, toothbrush & toothpaste, and winter gear. I think that's the way our town avoids inflated expectations by not allowing them to ask for specific items. If there were specific toy requests, they didn't make it to the tree the middle/high school students were shown to pick from. The PTA also does a stocking drive and bags up close to 50 bags of assorted stocking stuffers that go home with the elementary students who participate in the weekend backpack food program, so their stockings are taken care of as well with treats and toys.
@@elementarystemwithms.crosm5345 that’s so good because the expectation and limits are set. And it’s so good that most of what was asked for are essentials. This is a great example for Angel Tree possibly going forward to avoid any disappointment from the kids and complaints from the parents. And maybe mention characters and colors that the kids like, so everyone doesn’t get the exact same items. Thanks for sharing! 🙌🏽
@@BoldBeginningsNow Yeah, I do wish there was a bit more personalization. My daughter chose to purchase PJs for a 7yo girl, but my daughter's teenager taste vs. that of a kid were likely different. She ended up picking out a cute pair in a Christmas flannel, but I would've chosen characters of some sort.
When I was young we were so poor that during Christmas we would get thrift store toys but we didn't know they were thrift store toys because my mother would clean them immaculately and they looked brand new and then the clothing same she would just clean it and press it and make it look like it came from a store or a name brand store I remember I was 12 years old the first time I wore designer jeans that came from a store and not a thrift store.
Your mom sounds like a great woman that made you feel all the love you needed growing up and that is really what matters the most. A lot of times we didn't even realize we were lacking anything materially because we had each other and we had love. I think it also helped me become more grateful as an adult having had gone through those tough times growing up. Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Take care!
I've been lucky enough to have never been in need of services like the Angel Tree and that looked like a damn nice haul to me and she had the gaul to complain How Rude
That’s so sad how ungrateful people are now days especially when there asking for free things for there kids . What is this world coming to! Nobody owes these people anything this is why nobody now days has respect or values anymore because they lost appreciation towards anything.
@@jussaminecastillo7086 very sad! All we can do is hope for the best I guess and continue to live our own lives with the best intentions. But I agree with you there is a loss of respect and appreciation. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
@@rachelatwater7576 I saw that some wanted tablets and drones and of course kids wish for all the things on Christmas, but the parents have to set the expectations when it comes to strangers giving what they can afford as well.
If you want something specific, or Don't want something specific put it nicely on the tag, with a please. If you just put their age and interest you are going to get someone else's idea of what is appropriate for the child. I did this a couple of times when the kids were small.. I always added a small note at the bottom about allergies the kids had so people didn't buy them things they would not be able to play with.
People aren't going to want to do Angel Tree anymore 😢 I used to teach medical assistants and we had a similar tree, people took the cards but didn't buy the presents! I bought a LOT that year because my students came crying because they had nothing...and these ladies who's kids got presents are complaining?!!
@@JackieSkellington unfortunately, many may not want to donate, but hopefully that’s not the case. 🙏🏽 That was so nice of you to take up the slack of others that year, thank you for your kindness and generosity. ❤️
@@BoldBeginningsNow Aww, 💕 sure! Shame on those who took the cards - I know they had good intentions, but you know what they say about those! I'm not a big fan of the "it's the thought that counts" thing either - zero effort required for a nice thought
When I could I'd donate to the local Holiday With A Hero. They would take the kids shopping for family gifts. Law enforcement would close up a store just for that. Looked like they have a good time.
They should be grateful they have all their kids with them Christmas. It may be different next Christmas with all the school gun shootings that Trump feels we should just move on from and JD Vance says are a part of our lives now. And what. is she mad because Angel Tree didn't give her a PS5 ?
@@MF-qf7bs I pray for peace and being grateful they have their kids is a great way to look at. Not sure why she is so mad, but it’s the parent’s responsibility to set real expectations which would lessen the disappointment, if any.
@@tonyborelli. He made some comment after the shooting in Georgia, I think it was, calling it a "fact of life" or something along those lines. You can Google for more details as UA-cam won't allow links.
I AM going to say that it's probably going to hurt a child more to get a gift that will break in 24 hours and leave them heartbroken than to not get them anything. At least try to get gifts that are sturdy, that they can play with without breaking them immediately.
Yeah, a lot of folks are hurting in this economy and it sure did look like a good amount spent on those gifts. Gratitude is so necessary when it comes to people giving when they don't have to. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!😊
It's probably not so much of an age difference in your boys as personality differences. I have two grown children and four grandchildren, all of them are so different from each other it isn't even funny. I also have one sibling, a sister, two years older than I am, raised in the same household and we are absolute polar opposites. But yeah, an attitude of gratitude goes a long way on this earth as well as good manners, we need to teach those, enforce them and set good examples by doing the same outselves.
@@coleengoodell7523 I chuckled when I read it may be their personality differences because you just might be right! 🤭. I’m gonna watch over time to see if he gets the concept in a couple of years and how he responds to it. These are all good points, gratitude for the win! Thank you! 😊
LOL your 6 year old sound sliek my oldest when she was little. I told her I couldn't afford something so she told me to go to the bank and get some money, like they just give it out free.
The angel tree is for people to help you you need help they don't. Why are they going to overspend on you when they're probably not even over spending on themselves. Maybe don't have kids you can't take care of.
Yes, there needs to be a better understanding of what charity is and what the expectations should be as well. This should be considered more as something that supplements what you as a parent can give for your children on Christmas. Or if it is covering the whole Christmas list for certain families there should still be some financial limitations set. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! 🙌🏽
@@BoldBeginningsNow totally agree. But they are hurting their kids by there actions . Why do people think and say everything that comes to mind on the internet? Attention??
Some lady on Nextdoor complained that her neighbors ruined her kids Christmas because they didn’t get enough gifts. Good heavens these people are nuts.
I was so poor that I bought my kids one "big" present (no more than $20) and 12 dollar store presents so they'd have a lot under the tree on Christmas morning. I saved all year, a dollar here and a dollar there, I paid only part of my bills in winter so that I could afford that and a nice dinner. When anyone gave my kids anything, they wrote "thank-you" notes and we felt blessed by each item no matter how small.
The world can be a kind place.
@@mariecurie7840 I love 💗 that you are teaching your kids to be grateful, it really goes a long way. I also have to remind my kids to show gratitude because it’s essential. I pray that things get better for you and your kids.
You did good!
When I take those Angel Tree or Secret Santa wishes, I look for ones where they are asking for warm mittens, boots, gloves, a coat, or really simple things. I always include a toy or two on my own. If someone is asking for expensive stuff. I figure if someone is asking for major items then they probably have what they need already.
Same. It tends to look like a money grab when they ask for the latest gaming systems and Gucci purses. Parents need to tell their kids not choose items that are more like $20-30 instead of someone's rent payment.
Yeah, that makes a lot of sense to think about it that way. The essentials and a couple of toys is always a good thing. It's the parent's job to set the expectation and not set the kids up for possible disappointment because what kid wouldn't want the latest and greatest things on their Christmas wish list.
The angel tree in the last 10 years has turned into a scheme. For parents to get their kids more presents. I grew up with angel tree a few years cuz my parents were very poor and it is a blessing and I was always grateful.
I didn't even get that as a kid. We were so poor, when we didn't have money to get anything at all, I would hide one of my brother's toys and he'd hide one of mine (that we already owned) and then give each other a map to find the toy. Following the instructions and "going on an adventure" searching was the gift. On a good year, I'd get clothes and school supplies. I rarely got a new toy.
@@desktopkitty823 that was so creative “going on an adventure” and I think a lot of times when we didn’t have the resources or money growing up we made due with what we had, we had no choice but to be creative. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊
That is very clever and I bet made for a fun adventure
I see shoes, socks, hats, gloves, 2 balls, 2 sets of Matchbox cars, playdoh and something else. Did she have zero $ of her own to spend? What did she want?
I'm tired of people. So much selfishness and entitlement, lack of respect...😥
@@gmfutube it appears that some of the recipients wanted electronics, but not everyone can afford that right now, so they purchased what they could on the list. Some are debating if they should have even taken the tag off the tree if they couldn’t afford to fulfill the whole wishlist.
You’re right the attitude needs to change to one of gratitude and not entitlement. 💯
@@BoldBeginningsNow Not sure if this is true or not but I've heard that when tags are left on the tree and never taken or tags are taken by someone but the gifts are never delivered that gifts will be pulled from the others so that all of the Angels will get something for Christmas. If a kid puts down a bunch of expensive electronics, asks for a new bike and expensive designer athletic shoes it's possible that no one felt able to take their tag or they took it and had some kind of emergency (car repair, furnace stopped working, etc) and were unable to shop for their Angel so volunteers pulled some less expensive toys to at least give the child something.
Everyone should be great for what they got. They didn't have to get anything. I got it this year because my daughter's father lost his job and she was happy with what she got. Be grateful for what you have
@Ainsleighsnotmeanbutnice I love that they were able to step in to give to your family. I’m glad your daughter was happy for Christmas! Best wishes to you and your family! ❤️
I grew up very poor, there were years we didn't have a phone or a TV, and we wore hand-me-downs, and ate a lot of beans and rice. My mama, bless her, made us presents. I still have a crocheted dog puppet and clothes she made for me for Christmas; she'd save every penny to buy things out of the bargain bin to make us stuff. We were all very grateful for the help we got from friends, family and the community, and I give now whenever I can.
@@maghurt I love this! This made me think of the times my mom would make our clothes and we would go to the fabric store to pick out the patterns we wanted and the actual fabric we wanted for our clothes. These are core memories that will be cherished for sure. Thank you so much for sharing and for continuing to give back! 🫶🏽
@BoldBeginningsNow Thank you! Those may have been lean times, but I feel that going through them made me stronger and happier, and to value what really matters. I hope you have a wonderful New Year's, ❤️
@ those times do shape us for sure. Happy New Year to you as well! 🎊🫶🏽
I got a crocheted White bunny in a blue dress and a crocheted green pig.
Still have both.
Some lady on Nextdoor complained that her neighbors ruined her kids Christmas because they didn’t get enough gifts. Good heavens these people are nuts.
Wow, just Wow!!
they should have linked her to a job application to cirque du soleil since she wanna be a clown so bad and needs money too
Our church has a 'Christmas Toy Shop' where parents/custodial grandparents signed based on criteria. Trees were put out in the church with some general suggestions (earphones, toys, $25 max) and some specific requests if any were given at sign-up (a specific educational toy) and members of the church could buy a toy or just donated and the high school youth went on a group shopping trip. On the day of the Toy Shop the parent/custodial grandparent came and shopped for 2 toys per child and paid $1 for each. They also got socks, canned foods donated by the pre-school kids, either an appropriate age book or a child's Bible and a food voucher from a local-owned grocery store. Last year there were 109 children served. This year it was over 200. Most of the shoppers expressed thanks and gratitude. BUT- the organizers learned from years past to use a permanent marker to mark through the USP code, since a few years ago at least 2 shoppers were seen taking the toys back to be returned for money. Granted, they may have needed the money but that was not the reason for the toy shop, their kids.
That sounds like a really organized way to do and it also helps the families requesting the assistance set the expectations for their children. Thanks for sharing!
I raised my kids to understand that Christmas is for giving and not about receiving a room full of gifts. My kids were taught to make gifts to give to others (teachers, friends, neighbors) whether it was a homemade card, a craft item, baking cookies, or doing a service like shoveling sidewalks for an older neighbor. They learned that their "gifts" didn't have to be purchased from a store, and they learned to recognize the gifts that they received from others that came without wrapping paper. Perhaps it was a classmate who reached out in friendship when they were new in class, or a friend who shared their lunch when they forgot theirs. There is no reason why families should spend half a year paying off credit card debt to pay for Christmas gifts.
@@jgirl18515 and these acts of kindness will get passed down to their children! 🙌🏽 These are some great examples of gifts that don’t cost money and they come from the heart! Love it!❤️
Lord GRATITUDE! Is the basis and foundation of a full life. We choose what we focus on!
@@daniellehadleyministries yes we do choose what to focus on and sometimes we can get stuck there depending on our circumstances. Thankfully, we can change our thoughts day by day and moment by moment. 😊
Last year, my work was doing a promotion for a similar charity where you can go online and read a child's letter to Santa with their gift requests. I didn't/don't have a lot of money because I am a student and only working part time. Well, let me tell you, I gave up trying to donate after reading several letters. TVs, Xboxes, tablets, designer items, etc. Some cost $500 or more. These parents apparently can't afford ANYTHING for Christmas, but they felt no compunction about letting their kid ask a stranger for gifts that cost $500+. I'm sure, if I'd dug through, I would have found some that listed items that cost more like $20-50. But I honestly was so disgusted that parents wouldn't have their kids put maybe 1 big item, but mostly smaller things. IMO, these parents failed twice. Not only were they unable to provide for their kids (which could be due to circumstances outside their control), but they also failed to give the kid a realistic expectation. Most of those kids probably got nothing because people can't afford an extra $500 in their Christmas budget.
Exactly, that's the sad part, the kids going without because of the expensive requests instead of a realistic one. And you're right the parents have to set the expectations. One other person said that to possibly assist the parents understand as well would be for the charity to set a max budget which is a good idea. I may have given up too if I only saw expensive items, so I completely understand. At least you were willing to participate which shows your kindness. Thank you for sharing!
I used to do the Angel Tree.
Then I took a look at the tags.
PlayStation x box Apple hones.
I walked away.
I think those are nice gifts.
@@rebeccapiamonte Same! 🙌🏽
I do too.
It will be sad if people stop giving bc of this. I have no family and I am on a small fixed income. I do without things that I want and sometimes need bc it's important to me to share. I give in every way that I can. I have to remember that I'm doing it bc it's the right thing to do. I have been helped, I want to help others. I know how grateful I was so I concentrate on that.
How sad it is with a stack of gifts - and the phone to make videos - to publicly complain that you weren't given enough.
@@sandy-pf9bb it would be sad indeed! It’s so kind of you to share and help others. And yes, the public declaration is what makes it worse. Hopefully they will have a change of heart going forward. Gratitude is the attitude! 💯
I pulled a child from the angel tree this Christmas. I spent more money on that child than I did my own. But these videos are making me not want to pull a name next year.
@@lillianbrooks5129 thank you for donating! There were some positive reactions that I added to one of my videos, so don’t let these negative ones deter you, but it is understandable how you feel. 💯
I think most people who do the Angel Tree, which I have done at work, do not think they are the only one getting toys for the children. I have done it and typically there is one or two things listed on the tag. My assumption has always been that it is adding to other gifts the children are getting. If you want your kids to get more gifts and can't afford it, I suggests also going to Toys for Tots or signing up at the local church, etc. Alternatively, put money aside throughout the year to buy the gifts yourself.
I agree with you, I have also done Adopt-a-Family and the families that I have donated to normally ask for essentials for the whole family and a few toys for the kids. Toys for Tots is a good suggestion.
Yes
I spent as much and bought gifts the same for the Angel Tree recipient as I was buying for my own family. I see all those things and think, wow, such nice gifts and 2 pairs of shoes?!! Lucky kid. Then, people are complaining?! I don't understand because all those things looked great to me. The ball, the toys, the shoes, all very nice gifts. It's hurtful as a giver to hear of the ungratefulness as there was love, money, time, and caring put into those purchases. There were years in the past when my husband would ask what I wanted for Christmas and I told him, I wanted the kids and grandkids to have things to open, and I'd rather have holiday cookies, baking, and a big meal to share than a gift. This year, with his new job and more income, we were able to not only get all our family gifts, but I was so happy to have the extra, and I used what would have been my gift money, to choose an Angel from the Angel Tree and spend on someone who otherwise might not get any Christmas gifts. I was so happy I could give someone else something special and send them some love in a pretty wrapper. I told my husband that's what I wanted for Christmas, to give someone else a Merry Christmas too. I really hope that the young lady I shopped for was grateful and happy and felt loved when she opened her things, and not ungrateful like those entitled trolls. I wasn't able to get everything on her wish list, because we had a maximum dollar amount set by the church, but I did my best to ensure she had some nice things to open on Christmas Day.
I am so happy you were able to give someone a Merry Christmas, that was so selfless of you and is very much commendable. Thank you for your kindness and I am happy to hear that your husband was able to provide some extra income due to his new job, that is truly a blessing. It was so surprising to see all of the videos on TikTok with the complaints, but thankfully there were some positive reactions (I added to this video or the other one where I discussed the topic). Thanks again for sharing your thoughts and your Christmas spirit!
Yeah I just cannot understand how people cannot appreciate the people that are helping them when they can't even help themselves. That woman could not afford shoes for her own children somebody provided shoes for her children. And I would be straight embarrassed to be somebody showing my face on the internet coming up and using somebody's kindness against them but that is the modern world we live in it's some kind of weird clout.
As a single mom working for nonprofit organizations in a career in drug treatment, it was challenging just to get by. But we felt rich in many other ways, and being grateful truly is key. I worked hard and graduated university too, was able to stop drugs and alcohol use 30 yrs ago, yay. My daughter and I’ve delivered Angel Tree gifts for incarcerated parents via our church program for years- and I’ve seen the whole spectrum /gamut of attitudes in this regard. But mostly the parent, grandparent or caregiver was happy the child was receiving a gift ‘from’ the parent incarcerated parent. Yet some don’t even say a word of thanks and ask if we can get them other things, ugh.
@@DChristina Congratulations on your sobriety! 🎉👏🏽 And the work you are doing is commendable! As long as the child is happy is all that matters. I’ve also worked in shelters and have seen children be satisfied with a couple of gifts, so it’s really how the parents set their child’s expectations that determine the outcome.
Thank you, Praise God!
Yes, you’re absolutely right- the parent really does set the tone in this regard.
The entitlement in audacity of people these days is beyond disgusting.
I would’ve loved to have provided gifts for other people this year, but I had to skip paying my bills for two months for an necessities myself. Everyone is having difficulty economically now and to have people expect others to give them certain gifts is reprehensible and then to go on TikTok and talk about it is beyond words.
@@slbellue6874 Yes, Yes, and Yes! I was grateful for anything I could get when I needed help. It is very hard out here today in this economy, so I really wouldn’t be complaining because money is funny for a lot of folks. So you do have to be grateful that you received anything.
When I first heard about this Angel Tree situation, I thought the complaint was about how some people donate stuff that is broken/stained/etc. because they are too miserly to donate something new/good condition as if just because someone is poor, their kids don't deserve to have a nice Christmas like other kids. These would be the same kind of people that donate expired food because they think poor people shouldn't expect to get the same decent quality food as non-poor folks.
But I was not prepared for a video showing a fair amount of apparently new toys, some in original packaging even! So yes, I do agree that the complainer is being ungrateful. Even if her kids HATE those toys(which they might), just say thanks, sell the toys the kids don't like, use the money to buy them something they will like. It's really not that hard to keep from being a jerk as some people make it seem.
Yes that would be a great idea to either regift it or exchange it if the kid doesn't like, but make sure to say thank you and discuss being grateful for everything received. It is a humbling experience to need help from others, but to complain about the help is a whole nother level of ungratefulness. I would keep it to myself if I didn't like something that was donated to me and not go onto a social platform for the world to see because it doesn't have a positive change or impact. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
The epitome of “Looking a gift horse in the mouth”. You get giftS! And complain? Nope.
@@RobinMcIntosh-v7p Right!! You are getting gifts, enough said. 💯
I was thinking of donating to Angel Tree now I'm glad I didn't,it's people like her that ruin it for everyone else!
@@edlynnporter7519 unfortunately you’re right about that! Thankfully, there were some positive responses that I did add to this video or the other one I discussed this topic on.
I can smell her sense of entitlement from here. When I was growing up we were taught to be grateful for what we had. If we received a gift from someone we were always grateful, thanked them, and wrote a thank you note.
I can't believe there are people complaining about receiving CHARITY.
Yeah, it’s a little much to complain about receiving things you didn’t have to pay for. And even if the items were things you didn’t like, don’t publicize it, just still show gratitude. Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts!
As a single parent, I struggled I had no child support for one child. Very little child support for the other child. I worked one job full-time and two part-time jobs and I cleaned houses on the weekend. I made enough to buy a small two bedroom house I gave each to my children. The bedrooms and I lived in the laundry room/pantry room and I wouldn’t have let them have any other rooms because the room I was in at the back door and I would not have put a child in a room with a back door or any door outside. I often had to rely on the kindness of others for Christmas and although I never did put my children on the list for the angel tree, I was given many gifts from others both both at my church and my neighborhood as they knew my situation. One neighbor bought my daughter her first bike❤️… because I could only afford one that year. it broke my heart, but it was the best I could do when I look at those children on my angels tree I try to remember my children. I tried to remember what they needed what they wanted and I also know that their children and they want everything everyone else as a child wants Legos are expensive and it breaks my heart when a child sees a game that they want or an Xbox I remember my son wanting one he never got one for me and I told him as a child you will not be getting the things that you think you need you will be getting the things I can afford.
And by the way, I was a single white mother … it didn’t make a difference being white I still struggled and I lost my home and ended up homeless like so many other people, white black, yellow, brown, and red. Race does not make you rich just because you’re white and it does not always give you privilege
@@lauriepolden6594 the kindness of strangers goes a long way! The struggles of life are sooo real for so many! As long as the kids are safe and taken care of is the top priority always. It’s always nice to get what we want as kids, but unfortunately that’s not always the case. I have most certainly been there where I needed all of the help I could get. My oldest son wanted so much that I couldn’t afford at the time, but thankfully extended family picked up where I couldn’t. Thank you so much for sharing your experience! 🫶🏽
Good for you ☺️ congratulations 🎉👏 n ty for sharing to those who dont get it 😂 gratitude brings you peace ✌️ n you can accomplish more
@@ogmaamgo8970 most definitely! Gratitude is the attitude and once you are grateful for the least of things you will indeed be blessed with more! Thank you! 😊
When I was unemployed for two years, I was on food stamps while going to school and looking for a job. I often had more money than I used in food stamps, so I would take homeless people food shopping with me so they could eat too, or I would buy extra and make them something to eat and bring it down to them at the shopping center.
I didn’t feel like that money was mine to hoard and keep. It was a service that was provided to me because I worked my whole life and I should share it.
@@slbellue6874 that was very kind of you! 🫶🏽 Thank you for sharing your story!
My kids' school had a gift tree, but my daughter noticed very quickly that every person on the tree asked for the exact same items. I think it was PJs, a book, toothbrush & toothpaste, and winter gear. I think that's the way our town avoids inflated expectations by not allowing them to ask for specific items. If there were specific toy requests, they didn't make it to the tree the middle/high school students were shown to pick from. The PTA also does a stocking drive and bags up close to 50 bags of assorted stocking stuffers that go home with the elementary students who participate in the weekend backpack food program, so their stockings are taken care of as well with treats and toys.
@@elementarystemwithms.crosm5345 that’s so good because the expectation and limits are set. And it’s so good that most of what was asked for are essentials. This is a great example for Angel Tree possibly going forward to avoid any disappointment from the kids and complaints from the parents. And maybe mention characters and colors that the kids like, so everyone doesn’t get the exact same items. Thanks for sharing! 🙌🏽
@@BoldBeginningsNow Yeah, I do wish there was a bit more personalization. My daughter chose to purchase PJs for a 7yo girl, but my daughter's teenager taste vs. that of a kid were likely different. She ended up picking out a cute pair in a Christmas flannel, but I would've chosen characters of some sort.
When I was young we were so poor that during Christmas we would get thrift store toys but we didn't know they were thrift store toys because my mother would clean them immaculately and they looked brand new and then the clothing same she would just clean it and press it and make it look like it came from a store or a name brand store I remember I was 12 years old the first time I wore designer jeans that came from a store and not a thrift store.
Your mom sounds like a great woman that made you feel all the love you needed growing up and that is really what matters the most. A lot of times we didn't even realize we were lacking anything materially because we had each other and we had love. I think it also helped me become more grateful as an adult having had gone through those tough times growing up. Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Take care!
I've been lucky enough to have never been in need of services like the Angel Tree and that looked like a damn nice haul to me and she had the gaul to complain How Rude
@@jenniferhoisington66 yeah not the best response, right? That was a pretty good haul to me too.
And then you have NO IDEA what those people are capable of affording, and if THEY are doing without to try to provide something for YOUR family.
@@carlausoff6407 Exactly!! 💯
That’s so sad how ungrateful people are now days especially when there asking for free things for there kids . What is this world coming to! Nobody owes these people anything this is why nobody now days has respect or values anymore because they lost appreciation towards anything.
@@jussaminecastillo7086 very sad! All we can do is hope for the best I guess and continue to live our own lives with the best intentions. But I agree with you there is a loss of respect and appreciation. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
What did the parents want iPhones for the kids?
@@rachelatwater7576 I saw that some wanted tablets and drones and of course kids wish for all the things on Christmas, but the parents have to set the expectations when it comes to strangers giving what they can afford as well.
If you want something specific, or Don't want something specific put it nicely on the tag, with a please. If you just put their age and interest you are going to get someone else's idea of what is appropriate for the child. I did this a couple of times when the kids were small.. I always added a small note at the bottom about allergies the kids had so people didn't buy them things they would not be able to play with.
@@toscatattertail9813 you make some good points about being specific and adding allergies, as well as using good manners. Thank you for sharing! 💯
People aren't going to want to do Angel Tree anymore 😢
I used to teach medical assistants and we had a similar tree, people took the cards but didn't buy the presents! I bought a LOT that year because my students came crying because they had nothing...and these ladies who's kids got presents are complaining?!!
@@JackieSkellington unfortunately, many may not want to donate, but hopefully that’s not the case. 🙏🏽 That was so nice of you to take up the slack of others that year, thank you for your kindness and generosity. ❤️
@@BoldBeginningsNow Aww, 💕 sure! Shame on those who took the cards - I know they had good intentions, but you know what they say about those! I'm not a big fan of the "it's the thought that counts" thing either - zero effort required for a nice thought
When I could I'd donate to the local Holiday With A Hero. They would take the kids shopping for family gifts. Law enforcement would close up a store just for that. Looked like they have a good time.
@@MarleneSnelling that sounds like a good time for the families! Thanks for sharing! 🙌🏽
They should be grateful they have all their kids with them Christmas. It may be different next Christmas with all the school gun shootings that Trump feels we should just move on from and JD Vance says are a part of our lives now. And what. is she mad because Angel Tree didn't give her a PS5 ?
@@MF-qf7bs I pray for peace and being grateful they have their kids is a great way to look at. Not sure why she is so mad, but it’s the parent’s responsibility to set real expectations which would lessen the disappointment, if any.
can u show me a clip of vance saying that? i sense that if he had said school shootings ARE NOT taking place, you would have a problem with THAT also.
@@tonyborelli. Google exists.
@@LdyDi69 classic lib answer. "i will make baseless claims but i insist u believe me& seek evidence to back me up'
@@tonyborelli. He made some comment after the shooting in Georgia, I think it was, calling it a "fact of life" or something along those lines. You can Google for more details as UA-cam won't allow links.
Sit them down and work out how much time a parent would work to have to afford the gift they want.
Yes, eventually children have to understand that nothing is free. Not only does it cost money, but it costs time!
I AM going to say that it's probably going to hurt a child more to get a gift that will break in 24 hours and leave them heartbroken than to not get them anything. At least try to get gifts that are sturdy, that they can play with without breaking them immediately.
I can understand that as well, a quality toy would be nice. We do want the kids to enjoy their gifts for as long as possible.
Majority of people that be needing assistance are in their predicament for a reason by their own choices. Stop supporting these resourceful con artist
The United States are hurting right now that looked like someone spent five hundred dollars, SMH
Yeah, a lot of folks are hurting in this economy and it sure did look like a good amount spent on those gifts. Gratitude is so necessary when it comes to people giving when they don't have to. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!😊
I don’t support the Salvation Army as a charity.
@@wabisabi6983 now I have to ask why because I’m nosey 🤭
Me either.
@@BoldBeginningsNow They went woke. When a charity disparages the 80% that make the contributions in the first place they will lose support.
@@Mutasis_Mutandis ok, thank you!
@@BoldBeginningsNow sure thing!
It's probably not so much of an age difference in your boys as personality differences. I have two grown children and four grandchildren, all of them are so different from each other it isn't even funny. I also have one sibling, a sister, two years older than I am, raised in the same household and we are absolute polar opposites.
But yeah, an attitude of gratitude goes a long way on this earth as well as good manners, we need to teach those, enforce them and set good examples by doing the same outselves.
@@coleengoodell7523 I chuckled when I read it may be their personality differences because you just might be right! 🤭. I’m gonna watch over time to see if he gets the concept in a couple of years and how he responds to it.
These are all good points, gratitude for the win! Thank you! 😊
What happened to being grateful
It has become a lost art for some, unfortunately. We have to do better as a society.
LOL your 6 year old sound sliek my oldest when she was little. I told her I couldn't afford something so she told me to go to the bank and get some money, like they just give it out free.
@@relaxandunwind564 😂😂 no clue at all!!
My daughter at 20 is working and going to college. I think now she really appreciates what I had to do to get her to where she is now.
If you can’t be grateful at least don’t be critical!
Right!!💯
I do Operation Christmas Child... no drama with that.
@@PrisonbreakSPNheroes thank you for sharing that! I’m glad it was drama free 🙌🏽💯
Same here. 3rd year. Love it! And you get to wrap the gifts!
The angel tree is for people to help you you need help they don't. Why are they going to overspend on you when they're probably not even over spending on themselves. Maybe don't have kids you can't take care of.
Yes, there needs to be a better understanding of what charity is and what the expectations should be as well. This should be considered more as something that supplements what you as a parent can give for your children on Christmas. Or if it is covering the whole Christmas list for certain families there should still be some financial limitations set. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! 🙌🏽
It's a problem...
@@darlenegattus8190 agreed!
No one will do it Next Year. Hope the people are happy.
@@kathyperkins435 that would really be sad because it would be hurting the kids more than anybody else, but it would be the fault of the parents. 🤞🏽
@@BoldBeginningsNow totally agree. But they are hurting their kids by there actions . Why do people think and say everything that comes to mind on the internet? Attention??
@@kathyperkins435 I wish I had the answer Kathy, it really is sad for the kids.
I like you
@@Rock_K9 Thank you!! 😊
A trip to jamaica is not a gift for a child. It is a gift for the parents. Spend $150 and get them some small presents still, geez.
@@karidennis6154 oh they had a great Christmas, rest assured!
Some lady on Nextdoor complained that her neighbors ruined her kids Christmas because they didn’t get enough gifts. Good heavens these people are nuts.
Not on the Nextdoor app 🤦🏽♀️