The holiday season may feel far away (t’s only September, after all) but at Be Leadership, we’re already turning our thoughts to one of our favorite traditions: our Stuff a Stocking initiative. Starting early gives us plenty of time to rally support, gather gifts, and make sure every stocking is thoughtfully packed and ready to bring joy when December and the holidays arrive.

What began as a small act of kindness has grown into a community-wide effort that makes the holidays brighter for children and families who need it most. Last year, thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we delivered 325 filled stockings through the Runnymede Foodbank. Each one contained carefully chosen gifts: crafts, books, clothing, toiletries, and small toys, that made a real difference for children aged three to sixteen.

This year, we’re excited to continue the tradition and aim to reach even more families. Whether it’s a stocking filled with creative activities, something warm to wear, or a special toy, every contribution carries with it a message of care and connection. Whether you’re near or far, there are ways you can help spread joy:

Join the Fun Close to Home

If you’re local to Runnymede, we can provide you with an empty stocking and a suggested list of items to include. You can fill it yourself and return it to us by 1 November. Short on time? You can drop off donations and we will fill a stocking (or 10!) on your behalf. Just reach out to us to get involved. 

Beyond filling your own stockings, there are also behind-the-scenes ways to contribute. You can help label and tag stockings, assist with auditing to ensure each one is ready to go, or even join us to physically stuff stockings together. These hands-on tasks make a huge difference and are a wonderful way to experience the spirit of this initiative.

Share the Spirit from Afar

Not nearby? You can still be part of this initiative through our Amazon Wish List, making it easy to purchase items that will go directly into stockings. It’s an easy way to be part of the magic, wherever you are.

Spread the Word

If you can’t fill a stocking yourself, you can still make a big impact by sharing this initiative with friends, family, or colleagues. The more people who get involved, the more children we can support– and the more festive joy we can share.

The items we suggest are small but meaningful: art supplies to inspire creativity, hygiene essentials to meet practical needs, books to ignite imagination, and cozy clothing to bring comfort. Each stocking is designed with love and care to ensure no child is left out this holiday season.

We know it feels early to be talking about the holidays, but starting in September allows us to set a bigger goal and give everyone time to get involved. Together, we can ensure that more children experience the joy and warmth of the season.

If you’d like to take part, please contact us at [email protected] or visit our Amazon wish list. Every stocking stuffed is a reminder that kindness is contagious, and that when we work together, we can spread joy that lasts far beyond the holidays.