MAP’s U.S. Reach & Blooming the Holiday Helping Hand Campaign

Children in the US today experience higher poverty rates than in most developed countries¹. According to national studies, roughly 1 in 5 kids in America live in food insecure homes, not getting the nourishment they need every day². Such a life of hunger profoundly impedes a child’s development and steers a future of psychological volatility and self-esteem issues, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty³. Since 2009, MAP has made alliances with 40+ schools, churches, and community centers to provide recurring nutritional meals and hygiene support to families, proactively identifying struggling communities, securing alliances, and working to empower underprivileged families. Beyond basic needs, programs also fund and support educational pursuits. These can enhance artistic development, inspire self-esteem, and tackle vocational prep in struggling low income communities.

The Holiday Helping Hand campaign is yet another MAP effort, annually executed, and in stride with the Holiday Spirit, seeking to nourish families that are well below the poverty line. This year MAP has partnered with NBC and the Each foundation for the campaign.

According to MAP President Delfarib Fanaie, “The philosophy of Holiday Helping Hand is to become a Secret Santa to underprivileged families through gifts of toys, winter wear and holiday meals. The parents can then give these comforts to their own children, and they can all believe in Santa Clause for one more year.”