![Group of volunteers with gifts](https://www.anchoragerescue.org/wp-content/uploads/Cashless.jpg)
On December 18, 2021 the Mission hosted it first Cashless Christmas based on the Isaiah 55 encouragement, “Have you no money, come and buy.”
Our amazing donors from all over the country provided goods and cash in support of the event. It was set up like a boutique gift shop where the homeless and those in recovery could shop for Christmas gifts for loved ones without cost. Our volunteers set up the rooms, provided punch and cookies, helped people shop and wrapped the gifts.
It was a most heartfelt event that truly expressed the spirit of Christmas. We helped over 130 souls to carry home over 700 items.
One young man walked in and asked, “Is this all for us?” He was told it was and when he asked why, the volunteer helping him pointed to the wall hang of the manger scene.
Christmas should never be untouchable. The whole glory of Christmas is that God Himself became the touchable God.