Holiday Assistance

Thirty-six years ago, one employee at Greer Police Department started the Cops for Tots Program as a way to help a small number of struggling families in the Greer area at Christmas time. The program was established to provide gifts for children who otherwise would have no gifts to open on Christmas day. Since that time, the program has grown exponentially and now helps hundreds of children each December. 

Families needing assistance through this year's Cops for Tots program may fill out an online application (launching on October 20, 2025 and closing on November 19, 2025) or pick up a paper application in the Greer Police Department lobby. The program is open to children from birth to twelve years of age and is for children who live in the City of Greer. The event date is December 13, 2025.

The RENEW Christmas Shoppe provides an opportunity for families to select gifts for their children during the holiday season without the burden of extra expenses. This special program offers new, donated items for parents to choose from, allowing them to give their children a joyful Christmas morning.

Additionally, participating families receive a holiday dinner, ensuring both a memorable meal and a heartwarming celebration. The Christmas Shoppe helps ease financial stress during the holidays, allowing families to focus on enjoying the season’s joy and togetherness.

The RENEW Christmas Shoppe empowers neighbors who are actively working toward a more stable, self-sufficient life. Eligible participants can shop for Christmas gifts and a holiday meal for their families — with dignity, choice, and joy. If you have any questions about eligibility, please reach out at RENEW@GreerRelief.org.

To become eligible, neighbors must participate in one of the following RENEW pathways:

RENEW Classes: Classes are offered throughout the year, both in-person and online.

Our RENEW classes are designed to strengthen essential life skills. To qualify, you must complete 12 classes by December 6th, with at least one class in each of the following areas:

• Healthy Living: Topics may include nutrition, stress management, and self-care.

• Financial Wellness: Learn about budgeting, saving, credit, and more.

• Job Skills: Explore resume building, interview techniques, and workforce readiness.

Triple P Parenting: Through 12 personalized sessions, parents and caregivers gain practical tools to build strong family relationships, manage behavior positively, and create a nurturing home environment.

Saturday Programs: Saturday Programs offer hands-on learning in a fun, supportive environment. Sessions are held on October 4th, November 8th, and December 6th and cover topics like personal development, parenting, healthy habits, and family bonding activities. Attend all three sessions to earn eligibility.

LEG Up: LEG Up (Learn, Empower, Grow) is a structured program that helps neighbors move from crisis to stability. It focuses on setting and achieving personal goals, increasing income, and developing long-term sustainability. Participation in LEG Up includes automatic eligibility for the Christmas Shoppe.

LEG Up Youth: This 12-week program empowers youth to imagine and plan for their adult lives. Participants explore careers, set goals, and build confidence while gaining critical life and decision-making skills. Completing the program earns 8 of the 12 credits needed for Shoppe eligibility.