The United Way of Central Texas has a gift-giving solution that can also help Central Texans who may be having a difficult year financially.

“I’ve come to realize that the greatest gift you can give someone is the chance to help others. There really is no greater satisfaction,” said Ann Thompson, chief executive officer of the United Way of Central Texas. “Our hearts and thoughts are filled with the spirit of Christmas.”

Peter Brumleve, a United Way volunteer, and his family have decided to have a “no stuff Christmas” this year.

“Many families are struggling this Christmas season to provide even basic necessities, let alone Christmas gifts,” Brumleve said. “So my family agreed that rather than spending money on gifts for one another, we would spend money on a gift that really counts and that will make a difference for others. Each of us is going to give ‘The Gift of Giving’ by contributing to a charity in our family and friends’ names.”

United Way of Central Texas wants to give everyone that opportunity.

“We have initiated a Christmas giving program that will enable Central Texans to give a gift that will benefit others in the name of their loved ones,” Thompson said.

People can donate to the charity of their choice by clipping and sending to the United Way office ‘The Gift of Giving’ certificate that can be found in the Temple Daily Telegram on Sundays and Wednesdays for the next two weeks, or by calling the United Way office at 254-778-8616.

United Way will send a specially designed Christmas card saying, “You have been given the Gift of Giving.”

Donations can be given in the form of a general gift that will help all United Way partner agencies, or gifts can be designated to help any non-profit organization that is important to the person to be honored.

“It is our hope that through this program, more and more people will be able to feel the true spirit of Christmas and what it means to the less fortunate,” Thompson said.

There are so many programs at work during Christmas and many people reach out at this time of year to help with Angel Tree and other similar programs, she said.

“But, what our citizens need to remember is that the feel good experience of helping the less fortunate does not have to end with Christmas,” Thompson said. “With the economic times we are facing, there are going to be so many needs in this community in the coming year and those kids that you give a Christmas present to are still going to need clothing, food and special care every month, not just at Christmas.”