More To The Story with Staley: Christmas in July

Dave finds out about Christmas in July at the Foundation House

CLEVELAND, Tennessee (WDEF) – For the second year in a row, the Cleveland-based “Foundation House” is holding its “Christmas In July” celebration!

Foundation House is an organization that provides assistance to mothers or pregnant women who are struggling with homelessness, joblessness or addiction.

The business also serves the public with its two gift shops in downtown Cleveland. Lots of holiday decorations to be had.
But this event is a fundraiser as well!

SUZANNE BURNS, FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR;
“We’re looking for a couple of things. First, for people to shop in our stores. And secondly, for people to donate directly.”

There are many items one can always buy in these gift shops. Many are made by the woman who are in the program. Clothing, jewelry, housewares.

But right now, you can pick up some nifty Yuletide ornaments as well.

Morgan Stevison is in charge of the Christmas items. She started working on the project some two months ago.

“This year is more fun for me. I now have my footing in there. I know how to make everything work. And I’ve revamped some things. So this year is more fun for sure.”

Executive Director Suzanne Burns says calls to her organization are up 200 percent since last year. And so many women seem to be struggling much more severely than in times past.

“There are far more serious situations than we’ve seen before. We are capable of caring for these women. But it requires more staff time, more investment and it requires that they stay with us longer. Previously, the stay was about six to nine months. Now, it’s more like a year to a year and a half.”

Christmas In July starts this Thursday, and runs through Saturday. 10 to 6 on Broad Street in Cleveland.

From Cleveland, Dave Staley, News 12.