Christmas is an important time at Atlanta Mission and every year we are blown away by the generosity we see from our community. Christmas can be filled with little joy for those experiencing homelessness, especially children. Morgan Stanley, a long-time partner and friend of Atlanta Mission, is committed to making Christmas a magical time for the kids at My Sister’s House. Morgan Stanley purchases all of the Christmas gifts for the kids. The moms at My Sister’s House then get together and wrap the presents for their kids. It’s a partnership that makes us smile as they are able to provide joy and hope for the kids and their moms on Christmas morning.

Two different Morgan Stanley complexes have been committed to providing Christmas gifts for the past few years. And in each complex, there is equal excitement to volunteer and give. In addition to providing presents, they also often organize a night to serve a meal at My Sister’s House, and the employees come to campus with joy, serving those in our care.

Sharon Lavelle and Alex Harbin, Complex Administrators at the two Morgan Stanley complexes in Atlanta, have seen the impact this partnership has had on those at My Sister’s House as well as those at Morgan Stanley for several years.

“It was just like Christmas in the office for a month, seeing all these presents just pour in and keep it organized for you guys for pickup. It was just so joyous.” – Alex

“More than anything, it’s so rewarding to me the day that the gifts are picked up. We stand back and look at the lobby absolutely packed full of gifts that we cannot get all the gifts in there because there are so many. It’s just beautiful to know that all those kids are going to get so many gifts for the holiday.” – Sharon

2020 looks a little different due to COVID-19, but we are overjoyed that these Morgan Stanley complexes are going to continue their tradition and purchase gifts for our kids again this year.

“This is a time where everybody needs just a little bit of joy in their life.” – Sharon

Though they can’t join us to volunteer and serve a meal at My Sister’s House in person due to social distancing requirements to keep our staff and clients safe, they’ll be providing a Christmas dinner for our clients this year! Not only that, but they continue to increase the number of gifts they are providing and have asked to purchase gifts to support the men at The Potter’s House as well.

“Just seeing the outpouring support from our office, it’s just so humbling at Christmas time. Just knowing what we’re doing for the community, it’s just really amazing.” – Alex

We are thankful for partners like Morgan Stanley, especially around Christmas. 

If you’re interested in discussing a partnership, please reach out here.