Creating a Sense of Joy: Holiday Updates from SVS
The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and generosity. At South Valley Services (SVS), we work hard to ensure our residents can experience moments of holiday cheer while embracing their resilience and strength. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, this year is shaping up to be a season of warmth and connection for the survivors we serve. Here’s a glimpse into how the holidays are going at SVS.
Updates from Salt Lake County
Recently, our residents were treated to a special visit from The Larks, an all-women musical group that brought the magic of Christmas to life with a beautiful performance. Their melodies filled the shelter with holiday spirit.
This past Saturday, we welcomed a softball team from Skyridge High School, who hosted a Christmas party. Their coach and her husband arrive dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, bringing holiday cheer and smiles to children and adults alike.
We were fortunate to have Mrs. Hobush from Salt Lake Center for Science Education and students from her Peer Leadership Club join us for a day of service. The students completed projects around the shelter and assembled craft kits for our residents to make their own ornaments.
Our Grinch Gift Giving program has also been met with wonderful community support. Through this initiative, residents list three items they want, need, and love, and members of the community step in to fulfill these wishes. However, with an increased number of new residents coming into our shelter this month, we still need more support to ensure every survivor receives a gift. Your contribution can make all the difference in helping our residents feel valued and cared for during the holidays, giving them the joy of receiving something meaningful and the magic of feeling truly special.
Updates from Tooele County
In Tooele, the holiday spirit is in full swing thanks to the generosity of our local community. A church group has stepped up to provide Christmas donations and dinner, and some members are even helping us assemble much-needed shelves. One of the leaders from the church and her husband will also join us as Santa and Mrs. Claus, spreading holiday cheer to our residents.
Tooele Junior High recently held an arts and crafts drive, providing creative activities and supplies for our residents to enjoy. Additionally, we received a donated Christmas tree that has transformed our space into a warm and welcoming holiday haven. Residents in Tooele are also benefiting from the Grinch Gift Giving program, which has brought smiles to children and parents alike.
We’re also excited to share that the Elks Lodge here in Tooele, a local non-profit group, has donated socks and underwear to our residents. They will continue to partner with us, collecting clothing items, gift cards, and more. These contributions will provide our clients with opportunities to participate in community activities and enjoy a renewed sense of belonging and normalcy.
The Impact of the Holidays on Survivors
The holidays can be an especially challenging time for survivors of domestic violence. Many are navigating the challenges of healing from trauma and rebuilding their lives while facing financial insecurity, which can make it difficult to embrace the season’s festivities. However, creating a sense of normalcy during the holidays can play a critical role in the healing process. Celebrations, thoughtful gifts, and acts of kindness highlight the importance of community connection and support systems in fostering healing for survivors and helping restore a sense of hope and stability in their lives. According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), offering survivors opportunities to create new, positive memories is crucial in their journey toward safety and independence.
How You Can Help
This season, you can bring joy and comfort to survivors by getting involved with SVS. Whether it’s through fulfilling a wish list, volunteering your time, or donating, your support ensures our residents feel the love and care of a supportive community.