Junior League of Montgomery Partners with HandsOn River Region to Deliver “Baskets of Love” for Families in the Montgomery Area

As the holiday season approaches, the Junior League of Montgomery teamed up with HandsOn River Region to make the holidays brighter for families in need through the “Baskets of Love” initiative. These thoughtfully curated baskets, filled with essential household supplies, baby items, and personal necessities, aim to alleviate financial burdens during the Christmas season. The annual event was held on December 9th at Saint James School where Junior League members enjoyed fellowship and fun building the baskets.

The Baskets of Love include items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, laundry detergent, and paper towels, as well as baby care necessities. Some baskets also included personal items like slippers, robes, and bath products. The Junior League’s goal is to allow families to prioritize their limited financial resources for other holiday expenses, bringing relief and joy to their households during this special time of year. HandsOn River Region will distribute the baskets to families through its network of community partners.

“Annual initiatives like the ‘Baskets of Love’ are a testament to the power of community,” said Amerika Blair, Junior League of Montgomery president. “We are incredibly grateful for our members’ donations and efforts to help fulfill HandsOn River Region’s mission of supporting families through the Christmas Clearinghouse program, especially during our 100th year.”

Members came together to assemble 84 Baskets of Love filled with household essentials and personal items. This initiative reflects the League’s ongoing commitment to serving the Montgomery community in partnership with HandsOn River Region. Founded in 1974 as the Voluntary Action Center after a study conducted by the Junior League and the Montgomery Area United Way, HandsOn River Region continues to play a vital role in regional volunteerism, disaster response, homelessness prevention, and charitable giving. Its Christmas Clearinghouse program remains the area’s largest holiday giving initiative, ensuring that families in need receive support during the festive season.

HandsOn River Region Executive Director Tasha Cooper also attended the event and spoke to Junior League members about the growing needs in the community during the holiday season. Her remarks highlighted the impact of the Christmas Clearinghouse program and the importance of collaborative efforts like Baskets of Love. As the Junior League of Montgomery prepares to celebrate its 100th year, this partnership is more meaningful than ever.

“This partnership reflects the years-long relationship between the Junior League of Montgomery and HandsOn River Region,” said JLM Community Council Vice President, Morgan Beckman. “Together, we’re able to make a meaningful impact for families in need, reminding them that they are supported and cared for during the holidays.”

The Junior League and HandsOn River Region encourage the community to get involved and support similar programs. By coming together, they hope to inspire others to spread joy and kindness to those who need it most.

For more information about the Baskets of Love initiative, the Christmas Clearinghouse program, or how to get involved, please contact Junior League of Montgomery Community Council Vice President, Morgan Beckman.

About HandsOn River Region:
Founded in 1974, HandsOn River Region empowers area nonprofits through five core programs, coordinates managed volunteerism, and operates the region’s largest Christmas charitable giving program. The organization also manages the 2-1-1 Information and Referral Helpline, supports disaster preparedness, and addresses homelessness through data-driven services.

About the Junior League of Montgomery:
Since 1926, The Junior League of Montgomery is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.