Be a Catalyst for Good: Join the 6th Annual Catalyst Christmas with the YMCA

The holiday season is a time for giving, connection, and compassion, and we are inviting you to be part of something truly special. The 6th Annual Catalyst Christmas is more than an event; it’s a movement of hope and generosity that uplifts thousands of individuals and families across North Texas.

What Is Catalyst Christmas?

The Catalyst Christmas Initiative began in December 2020, during one of the most challenging times in our shared history. As the pandemic isolated communities and deepened food insecurity, YMCA leaders and volunteers asked a simple but powerful question: How can we reach our most vulnerable neighbors in a way that truly matters?

What started as a grassroots effort, delivering holiday gift boxes filled with food, essentials, and messages of encouragement to 100 families, has grown into a region-wide expression of care. Now in its sixth year, Catalyst Christmas reaches over 5,000 individuals each holiday season, spreading comfort, joy, and hope through 1,000 holiday gift boxes assembled and delivered by volunteers.

Why Catalyst Christmas Matters

According to Feeding Texas, 1 in 8 Texans faces food insecurity—including seniors, veterans, children, and working families. The Catalyst Christmas Initiative tackles this urgent need head-on by providing:

• Nutritious, non-perishable food

• Essential supplies and personal care items

• Heartfelt messages and festive touches that restore dignity and belonging

Each gift box reflects the YMCA’s mission: to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

Community Partnerships that Make an Impact

The success of Catalyst Christmas depends on the collective strength of community partnerships. In 2024, thanks to support from YMCA staff, volunteers, and generous donors, 1,000 boxes were packed and delivered across North Texas.

We’re excited to welcome new partners Reliant and North Texas Food Bank, along with NTFB partner agencies Crossroads Community Services, The Flanagan Foundation, and A Pair of Socks for 2025. These partnerships will help us reach and serve even more families across North Texas.

“Providing nearly 20,000 pounds of pantry staples to support 1,000 families during the holiday season reflects our shared commitment to strengthening communities and ensuring no family goes hungry,” said Mike Flanagan, Founder and Executive Director of The Flanagan Foundation. “We’re proud to stand alongside the YMCA in making a meaningful difference for local families in need.”

How You Can Get Involved

Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 13th, from 9 AM to 1 PM. Volunteers across North Texas will gather at participating YMCA branches to assemble, pack, and deliver holiday boxes to neighbors who might otherwise go without this season.

Your time and energy make a tangible impact—each delivery brings nourishment, encouragement, and love right to someone’s doorstep.

Ways to Participate

• Volunteer: Join us in spreading hope and holiday cheer across North Texas! From sorting supplies to delivering boxes, every role makes a difference.

  • Sort & Pack: Dec. 9–11 at Park South Family YMCA

  • Load Boxes: Dec. 12 at Park South Family YMCA

  • Assemble & Deliver: Dec. 13 at your local YMCA branch

    SIGN UP 

• Donate food, supplies, and help with deliveries, or consider a financial donation.

To coordinate an in-kind donation, please contact: Latecia Patton – Lpatton@ymcadallas.org

• Spread the word by sharing Catalyst Christmas on social media.

Together, we can ensure that every family feels remembered and cared for this holiday season.

Be Part of the Movement

The Catalyst Christmas Initiative embodies the true spirit of the holidays—serving others, sharing kindness, and strengthening the bonds that hold our community together.

Join us in being a Catalyst for Good. Visit ymcadallas.org/events/6th-annual-catalyst-christmas to learn more, register to volunteer, or make a donation today.

Let’s make this Christmas brighter for every neighbor across North Texas.