Fullerton Celebrates 70 Years of Community Service

News Summary

The National Giving Alliance in Fullerton marks its 70th anniversary, continuing its mission to provide new clothing to those in need. Established in 1952, the NGA helps ensure that everyone, especially children, can walk with dignity. This local non-profit relies on volunteers and donations to support individuals and families in the community, celebrating decades of compassion and kindness.

Fullerton Celebrates 70 Years of the National Giving Alliance’s Heartwarming Community Service

Fullerton, CA – A wave of kindness and compassion has been flowing through Fullerton for over 70 remarkable years, thanks to the tireless work of the local branch of the National Giving Alliance (NGA). This community organization, which first opened its doors in 1952, has dedicated itself to providing new clothing for individuals in need, ensuring that everyone, especially children, can walk with dignity.

A Look Back in Time

To really appreciate how far the NGA has come, one needs to take a stroll down memory lane. The NGA was established all the way back in 1885 in Philadelphia, PA, by a trailblazing woman named Mrs. Alanson Hartpence, along with her niece Mrs. Laura Safford Steward and a group of six like-minded friends. Their humble beginnings were inspired by a noble cause—the plight of families who struggled to provide adequate clothing. They took a cue from Lady Wolverton’s Queen Mary’s London Needlework Guild and set to work, sewing new garments for those in need. That very first year, they distributed a staggering 921 garments to children in hospitals, orphanages, and families facing hardship.

From the start, the NGA operated under a remarkable principle: every child should receive at least two articles of clothing—one to wear and another to wash. This guided commitment laid the groundwork for what would become a nation-wide phenomenon. By 1896, the organization was formally incorporated as the Needlework Guild of America and started growing exponentially. Before long, there were 300 branches sprawling across 20 states!

Support Through the Decades

The NGA has attracted illustrious supporters throughout the years, including notable women leaders like First Ladies Edith Roosevelt and Frances Cleveland Preston. During tough times such as the Great Depression, Frances Cleveland Preston spearheaded a massive clothing drive to support families in dire need. Edith Roosevelt praised the organization for accomplishing significant feats with surprisingly minimal effort from individuals.

Fast forward to 2023, and the NGA evolved once again, changing its name to the National Giving Alliance to reflect a more comprehensive mission that caters to the modern community’s needs. Today, the alliance operates 24 branches across seven states, wholly reliant on the generosity of volunteers and donations from compassionate individuals.

NGA Fullerton’s Ongoing Mission

Here in Fullerton, the local NGA branch plays an integral role in supporting community organizations. Requests for assistance are sent anonymously to the Clothing Director, who ensures that volunteers purchase needed items and are promptly reimbursed for their efforts. This efficient system allows the alliance to cater to specific necessities of those seeking help.

The principle that “new clothes equalize, and used clothes pauperize” has become a guiding philosophy of the NGA. The focus on providing brand new clothing is crucial, as it aims to instill a sense of dignity and self-worth in those who wear them, especially children. This compassionate approach has made a real difference in countless lives throughout the decades.

70 Years of Commitment

As NGA Fullerton gears up to celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2024, the community is invited to join in on the festivities and in their mission. With continued support and donations, the local branch can keep making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in need. Interested folks can help by reaching out via email at NGAfullerton@yahoo.com or sending mail to P.O. Box 6294, Fullerton, CA 92834-6294.

In a world that often feels overwhelmed by challenges, the National Giving Alliance stands as a beacon of hope, drawing communities together through the simple yet powerful act of giving. So let’s mark this wonderful occasion and support NGA Fullerton as they continue their incredible journey of service!

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Fullerton Commemorates 70 Years of Service by National Giving Alliance

Additional Resources

• Fullerton Observer: Fullerton Fire Department Upcoming Events
• Fullerton Observer: Celebrating 85 Years of Service – The Assistance League of Fullerton
• Wikipedia: National Giving Alliance
• Google Search: Community Service Fullerton
• Fullerton Observer: Fullerton Resident and Business Owner Son Mai Partners with Come to Him Ministries