The holiday season is usually a joyous time, when families and loved ones reconvene and spend quality time together. But for some, this can be a stressful time as it’s also the season of gift giving. For those struggling to get by, it may seem near impossible to provide their loved ones with gifts they want or need.
Some stores offer layaway plans, allowing people to somewhat reserve an item and pay in installments. This is helpful for those who live paycheck to paycheck, offering a way to pay off items a little bit at a time rather than paying one lump sum upfront.
But some people really get into the spirit of giving and have been nicknamed “Layaway Santas” or Layaway Angels”. These are people who, whether anonymously or not, pay off strangers’ layaway accounts. This phenomenon gained popularity in 2011, when the first of the “Layaway Santas” struck – the person put down $500 to pay off three layaway accounts.
Since then this generous act has gained attention and many are following suit. Just this year, one Florida man spent $20,000 paying off 76 layaway accounts at a local Wal-Mart store. There is even a website set up (http://payawaythelayaway.org/) where people can donate as little or as much as they want.
The best testimony comes from the families on the receiving end of these holiday miracles. For them, a weight is being lifted off of their shoulders. Even if it is temporary, stress is relieved and the families can enjoy a blessed and blissful holiday.
The bottom line is that these people have earned their titles as “Layaway Angels”. By helping families in need they are spreading joy and cheer. And isn’t that what it’s really all about?