Secret Families at Toyota South
Secret Families of Madison County
Secret Families at Toyota South
- December 14, 2024
- 6:00 AM Shopping at Meijer
- 8:00 AM Wrapping at Toyota South
- 10:00 AM Deliveries will depart from Toyota South
- Click HERE to sign up as a volunteer!
"One Story at a time"
In December 2004, co-founders Al and Chris Holdren decided to not buy Christmas gifts for each other but instead use the money to provide a family in need with a tree and presents for the holiday. Husband and wife team, Al and Chris, along with their two daughters, Katie and Maddie set up two tables in their garage, added a couple of Santa hats, some wrapping paper and bows and the Secret Families Christmas Charity was started.
As the family continued wrapping, Al’s brother in law arrived with his family and inquired about what they were doing. Within the hour, his credit card in hand and the kids in the van, at 11 PM they were headed back to Meijer to buy for a second family that year.
"The name and secret part of Secret Families came from a friend that suggested the name based upon what I told him my family was going to do this Christmas. He asked that I use some money that he gave me to sponsor a family in need, but kept it a Secret."
-Al and Chris Holdren, Co-founders
How can the Gates Auto Family Help?
This year the Gates Auto Family will host the Fifth Annual Secret Families Christmas Charity in our community. All sponsored families will come exclusively from local school systems through school principals and family resource centers. All employees along with friends, family members, or other acquaintances can help by volunteering time or by making a donation to sponsor a family.
What do we do for Sponsored Families?
Volunteers will receive a budget of $550 for each sponsored family which will provide the following:
Christmas Tree
Families will receive a decorated Christmas tree (if needed)
Christmas Presents
Presents for the whole family to enjoy together!
Christmas Dinner
Each family gets a $50 Meijer Gift Card to spend on dinner
Family Bible
To celebrate the reason for the season
Ways to Sponsor:
- Write a check or donate supplies.
- Organize company fundraisers
- Reach out to your church or other organizations and arrange for sponsorship.
- Quickly and easily donate securely through PayPal or Venmo. (click link below)
- Volunteer your time! Click HERE to sign up as a volunteer
- Email us at secretfamilies@gatesautofamily.com to find out more.
Mail Checks to:
Secret Families of Madison County
961 Four Mile Road Richmond, KY 40475