A Mother’s Mission to Bring Joy to Children Affected by Violence
A mother from Louisville is using her personal tragedy to make a difference in the lives of children who have experienced loss and hardship. Through a unique initiative called “Christmas in July,” she is helping kids who have lost a parent or are dealing with the challenges of having a parent incarcerated. This annual toy drive aims to bring some light and joy to families during a time when many feel the weight of grief and uncertainty.
Ashlee Johnson, the founder of the Street Widows foundation, started the “Christmas in July” event last year as a way to support children who may not have the same opportunities for holiday cheer as others. Her own journey has been deeply shaped by loss—she lost her husband, who was tragically shot and killed in 2020. Since then, she has dedicated herself to creating a positive impact in her community, especially for children who are navigating similar pain.
Johnson understands that the holidays can be a difficult time for families who are grieving. “We know that when grief impacts people very tough during the holidays,” she said. “We also know that a lot of our parents struggle during the holidays to maintain their normal financial obligations, but then also give that Christmas spirit to their kids.”
Her goal is to ensure that no child feels left out or forgotten during the holiday season. By organizing this toy drive, she hopes to provide a sense of normalcy and joy to children who might otherwise feel isolated or neglected. The initiative has already made a significant impact, with over 100 kids benefiting from the gifts collected last year.
How You Can Help
The “Christmas in July” toy drive is currently accepting donations of new and unwrapped toys. These gifts will be distributed to children in need throughout the Louisville area. If you’re interested in contributing, you can drop off your donations at one of the following locations:
- Signarama in Butchertown
- Blak Koffee in the Russell neighborhood
- Blondie and Jim’s in Norton Commons
By giving a gift, you can help bring a smile to a child’s face and offer them a moment of hope and happiness. Johnson encourages anyone who is able to participate to do so, emphasizing that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
The Importance of Community Support
This effort highlights the power of community and the importance of supporting those who are struggling. For many families, the holidays can be a time of both celebration and sorrow, especially when they are dealing with the loss of a loved one or the absence of a parent due to incarceration. Johnson’s work reminds us that we all have a role to play in making sure no one feels alone during these challenging times.
Through her foundation and the “Christmas in July” toy drive, Ashlee Johnson is turning her personal pain into a powerful message of hope and healing. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, showing that even in the darkest moments, it is possible to create something meaningful and positive.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved, consider volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word about this important cause. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps to make a difference in the lives of children and families in need.
