PB & J Family Services is struggling to receive the normal amount of donations needed to provide for families during the holiday season. It’s not an uncommon occurrence among non-profits during a time when inflation is impacting how much people can spare.
The PB and J Holiday Wish Program provides low-income families with food, clothing, and other necessities during the holiday season. The program serves typically about 500 families but this year PB & J is struggling to keep up due to inflation and decreasing donations.
“You know, I think everybody is feeling the pinch,” Vanessa Anderson, PB & J Family Services spokesperson told KRQE. “New Mexicans are wonderful at being giving people and, unfortunately, all through the year, we’ve seen less donations for every single event that we’ve done, and I think it’s because of the inflation that we’re seeing.”
Courtney Etcitty is a single mother who said the program helped her provide for her three boys during a time when rising prices have taken their toll.
“I didn’t expect to have a Christmas this year because it’s kinda hard because we have bills, we have things that we need to get for the kids,” Etcitty told KRQE.
The program has been around for the past 20 years but officials said been historically difficult to get sponsors and donors. They’re receiving about half their usual number of donors. About 30 families are still in need of sponsorship to reach their goal before Christmas.
The group said helping families like Courtney’s during this time is what the holidays are all about.
“You know, just seeing big bags and knowing that they’re gonna have a Christmas next week, it’s just heartwarming. I mean all I have to say is thank you,” said Etcitty.
PB & J is still accepting donations through December 22.
