The Salem Christmas Fund Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization consisting of concerned residents who want to make it a little easier and less stressful for families who are having a difficult time particularly during the Holiday season. Founded in 1975, the Salem Christmas Fund was initially managed by the Town of Salem, New Hampshire through the Human Services Department to try and eliminate recipient duplication at the expense of others who were left out due to lack of funds. As this quickly became a greater challenge than the town could handle, a Board of Directors was formed and the fund began operating as a private non-profit as it does to this day.
While the town does not run the program, the Salem Christmas Fund works closely with them and the local school district to determine need and seek their expertise to help review applications for things such as residency, participation in other programs and general income verifications if needed.
While many of our donations come from businesses, civic groups, and faith-based organizations throughout the Greater Salem, New Hampshire area, the majority comes from individual donations. Since the organization is run 100% by unpaid volunteers, other than minimal supply and marketing expenses, everything goes to those most in need so every little bit helps. Please consider donating to the fund to help us.
Qualifying families / individuals will receive vouchers or gift cards that can be used for clothing, food and other gifts such as toys for children.
All needy families receive food gift cards / vouchers based on their size which is aimed at supplementing the cost of a Holiday dinner for them. This includes the elderly, many of whom live alone and do not always have the extra funds for that special meal.
Children still remain a large focus of our program. We utilize various businesses and Churches who help gather gift cards via “wish trees” so that children hopefully can get that one special gift they wish for.
Other than the individual(s) who do the application screening, recipients are kept anonymous. It’s all about helping each other at what should be a joyous time of year for everyone.
Salem Christmas Fund 