A couple of years ago I heard about the Christmas Jar. For those unfamiliar, it goes something like this:
The Christmas Jars movement, begun in 2005, is aptly name after the New York Times bestseller Christmas Jars. With nearly a half-million copies in circulation, readers have adopted the tradition memorialized in the fictional tale—to fill a jar with spare change and then give it anonymously to someone in need at Christmas. The tradition lives on in author Jason Wright’s newest book, Christmas Jars Reunion (Shadow Mountain Publishing, Oct. 2009, ISBN: 978-1-60641-165-0, Hardcover, $17.95).
What began as an experiment by the author’s family has now turned into a national “pay it forward” movement of giving. Hundreds of readers have emailed Wright, sharing their experiences of giving jars; he also has received many touching accounts from those receiving jars. “This small action has the potential to heal families, teach people how to give again, and show those who need help that they are remembered,” Wright said.
While there is no way of knowing just how extensive the ‘Christmas Jars’ movement has become, (the idea is to give a jar anonymously), Wright divulges that he’s aware of communities in 39 states across the country where jars are being given. He has also heard from individuals in Canada, England, Taiwan, Ukraine, and Italy.
Read the entire press release below:
The Christmas Jar Movement
Are you doing a Christmas Jar this year? Do you know someone who could use one? It's not too late, and no amount is too small!
