CULLMAN, Ala. – Curt’s Closet is preparing to bring the magic of Christmas to children and families across Cullman County through its annual Curt’s Christmas program.
Executive Director and Founder of Curt’s Closet Ashley Wilson said over the years, this beloved community initiative has supported thousands of local children, ensuring that, no matter a family’s financial circumstances, every child can experience the joy and wonder of Christmas morning.
“The need has grown exponentially in the past year,” Wilson said. “Last year, we had just over 200 applicants for Curt’s Christmas; this year, that number has grown to over 350. Every number represents a child, a face, a story, a little one who deserves to feel seen and loved on Christmas morning.”
Wilson shared that each year, Curt’s Closet works closely with local schools to identify families facing real social and economic hardship.
“Guidance counselors and administrators help connect children who might otherwise go without gifts or basic necessities to this meaningful program,” Wilson said. “For many of these families, Curt’s Christmas is about more than toys under the tree — it’s about restoring a sense of hope and dignity. Christmas morning is such a special time for these kids. Sometimes that is the only magic they get throughout the year. Knowing that someone in their community cares enough to make their morning special can change the way they see themselves, and the world around them.”
Wilson said the impact extends to parents as well.
“When parents pick up their children’s gifts, you can see both relief and gratitude in their eyes,” she said. “They want so badly to give their kids the Christmas they deserve, and this program helps make that possible. Sponsoring a child, or a family, is so rewarding. You can shop for those kids individually, actually picking out their gifts and imagining their joy as they open them. It’s a reminder that generosity doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be heartfelt.”
Wilson shared that Curt’s Christmas isn’t just about giving toys, it’s about giving hope.
“It’s about telling children, ‘You matter, and your community believes in you,’” she said. “And the beauty of the program is that every act of support, big or small, matters. You don’t have to do something huge to make a difference. One toy, one gift card, one act of kindness — it all adds up to joy.”
Curt’s Closet invites the community to join in spreading joy this season. There are several simple ways to make a difference:
- Donate new, unopened toys at one of the many Curt’s Christmas toy drive locations across Cullman County
- Host a toy drive through your business, school, church or civic group
- Sponsor a child or family and shop directly from their Christmas wish lists
Curt’s Closet is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clothing, shoes and essentials to children in need throughout Cullman County. Founded in memory of Ashley Wilson’s late son, Curt, the organization has a mission is to spread love, dignity and hope, one outfit and one child at a time. Through year-round efforts and programs like Curt’s Christmas, Curt’s Closet continues to serve as a beacon of kindness, community and compassion for local families.
For more information on how to donate, host a toy drive or sponsor a family this holiday season, visit www.curtscloset.org or www.facebook.com/cw20curtscloset or call 256-735-4557.
Curt’s Closet Christmas Open House
The community is invited to Curts Closet’s first ever Christmas Open House on Sunday, Dec. 7, from 4-6 p.m.
Said the nonprofit: “Enjoy a cozy cup of cocoa, fresh cookies, and a picture with Santa while soaking in the holiday spirit.
“This is also a special opportunity to step behind the scenes at Curt’s Closet; tour our showroom, where families shop with dignity, and our warehouse, where every donation is sorted, tagged, folded and hung by our amazing team. You’ll see firsthand how your support helps us clothe children in need and bring hope to families right here in our community.
“If you’ve ever wondered how to get involved, whether through volunteering, donating or partnering, you’ll leave inspired and equipped to make a difference.
“We can’t wait to celebrate with our friends, neighbors and community members while sharing the heart of Curt’s Closet this Christmas season.”
Curt’s Closet is located at 1101 Third Ave. SE in Cullman.
