Published on January 6, 2025 in Labor
Students from Warren E. Bow Elementary School lined up one by one to tell Santa the items on their Christmas wish lists.
From bikes to dolls to video games, kids requested items that typically line the shelves of big box stores throughout the holiday season. Others requested more basic items to help their families through difficult times.
“I want to give my mom some food,” said one student while another chimed in to ask for money instead of toys this year.
Across Detroit, 69% of families are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed or ALICE. When households are struggling to make ends meet, it’s nearly impossible to meet the added pressure of holiday meals and gifts.
United Way’s Labor of Love event was started more than 30 years ago to ease the burden and make the holiday brighter for families.
Last year’s event included 20 students from Rawsonville Elementary School in Ypsilanti.
The Washtenaw County tradition was expanded into Detroit this year, following the merger.
“We’re proud to carry on this tradition of giving back and helping families in need during the holiday season,” said Alicia Dennis, Labor Relations director at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “To see their little faces light up is what this season is all about.”
This year’s Labor of Love was made possible by generous donations from Ironworkers Local 25, Michigan Building Trades, Stellantis and UAW Local 174. UAW Local 900 provided in-kind use of their hall to host the event.
More than 35 students of all ages from kindergarten through eighth grade participated in the event, which included singing, coloring, fun activities, food, a visit from Santa and story time with Mrs. Claus.
“This means everything to our students,” said Sonja Burks, parent outreach coordinator at Bow. “For some, this will be their only Christmas celebration.”
Yolanda Carpenter, a social worker at the school, started identifying students to participate in the Labor of Love in October.
“These students are dealing with any number of things – from homelessness to living in shelters,” said Yolanda. “They’re excited and we’re excited to be able to take them out of the building and show them a good time.”
At pickup, Yolanda shared that one student’s mother couldn’t hold back tears knowing that someone saw her family struggling and decided to help.
Labor and United Way have worked side-by-side for more than 80 years to improve the lives of working families.
Reflecting on his own childhood, UAW Local 900 President Dwayne Walker, shared his motivation for helping out with the Labor of Love.
“As a young man growing up in the 70s, United Way was there for us – I recognize that. That’s why it’s so important for me to give back.”
Parents and staff were so moved by United Way’s efforts that they’re planning an appreciation event during an upcoming PTA meeting.
“We’re so grateful for the partnership with United Way,” said Yolanda. We refer so many of our families to 2-1-1 and this is one more way they’re giving back.”