Stockings of Love was born out of the life and legacy of Christine, whose joy at Christmas was absolutely infectious. She loved everything about the season — the story of Jesus’ birth, the glow of the lights, the music, the scent of pine — but nothing thrilled her more than the simple, beautiful tradition of stockings.
Growing up, Christine’s family didn’t hang elaborate stockings; they placed a single worn sock by the bedside on Christmas Eve. By morning, that humble sock was transformed into a small treasure, filled with treats and surprises. For Christine, that moment became a picture of the gospel, how Jesus takes us as we are and fills our lives with grace, hope, and new beginnings.
As she grew older, Christine carried that tradition into her own home. She filled stockings for her children, and even one for her husband, Jay. It was one of the ways she quietly and faithfully poured love into her family.
When Christine passed away in December of 2019, Jay wanted to honor her heart in a way that would keep spreading that same simple love. And so, Stockings of Love was born, an annual way of blessing others at Christmas through small gifts that bring warmth, dignity, and joy.
The first year, our church family filled 67 stockings for children at the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie. With each passing year, the impact grew and over 400 stockings have now been given to children and families in need.
In 2025, Stockings of Love is growing again.
Instead of just filling stockings, we are coming alongside local families who are facing difficult seasons — meeting practical needs, giving gifts, and sharing the hope of Christ in a personal and meaningful way.
Christine’s legacy continues, one act of kindness, one family, and one Christmas at a time.
So, if you’re looking for a way to make a difference this Christmas, consider donating to Stockings of Love. Every donation helps to ensure that a child in need has a happy and memorable Christmas.
