Gifts of Hope is an alternative gift-giving program and ministry sponsored by the Metropolitan Washington D.C. Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The program is open to all people and helps people in need regardless of their faith or religious affiliation.
Operating since Advent 1992, Gifts of Hope has raised and disbursed almost $4 million to two church camps, four ministries, three international companion synods, and ten local social service agencies affiliated with the Synod. These funds have helped the homeless, the hungry, the young, the elderly, immigrants, refugees, jobseekers, seminary and college students, and those seeking to improve their lives.
Resources
Email the Director with any questions.
Download a Gifts of Hope flyer to share with your congregation!
Reminder for donors/churches writing checks: make checks payable to Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod, ELCA (add “Gifts of Hope” to the memo line).
Printed Cards
🎄 Gifts of Hope volunteers distribute printed Christmas cards to churches in the Metro D.C. Synod prior to Advent. If you're looking for printed Christmas cards, please check with your church first to see if they have any cards available. If your church doesn't have any or if you need any more, please email the director.
🎂 We have printed birthday and celebration cards available to order through our online store. When you purchase a pack of five printed cards (3 birthday, 2 general celebration) for $15, $10 will go to the beneficiary organizations ($5 will go back into the operating fund to help cover printing/shipping costs). See the card cover designs here.
🖨️ In a rush to get a Christmas card to someone? Print one at home! We have three designs for you to download, print, and fold. Access the PDF here.
How It Works
Get to know the organizations we support and their impactful work in the world.
Start changing the world through more meaningful giving.
Giving in someone’s honor? View our free digital cards or mail a paper card!