NY Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton Pays Off Layaways for 168 Families
North Bergen, NJ – Pay Away the Layaway and NY Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton surprised 76 families at a Burlington in North Bergen, New Jersey on December 12, 2023.
54 families at a Citi Trends store in Mobile, AL and 38 families at a Burlington store in Lilburn, GA also received the incredible news their layaways were paid off thanks to a generous contribution from Slayton and his Left Hand Right Hand Foundation.
Slayton joined Pay Away volunteers to personally deliver the news that holiday layaway balances had been completely paid off in North Bergen. Recipients in Lilburn and Mobile received a video message from Slayton with the good news that they were able to bring their layaways home that day.
“I wanted to make the holidays a little bit easier at this time of year, I know it can be a struggle and a strain. This is my way of doing what I can to reach out to the community that helped raise me and give something back. Happy Holidays and be blessed!,” said Slayton.
A grateful recipient in Mobile said, "Thank you for paying off my layaway at Citi Trends. You made my day. I was wondering how I was going to pay it off. God sent an angel and it was you."
Pay Away’s mission is to spread joy and kindness to families. For over 10 years, the organization has surprised unsuspecting families by paying off their layaway balances across the country.
You can help make the holidays a little brighter for families who least expect it. Give now at www.payaway.org/giv
Pay Away Volunteers Surprise 72 Families
A generous contribution from Givsly helped Pay Away the Layaway surprise 72 families at Burlington Stores in Chelsea on December 5, 2023.
They were joined by employees from dentsu and Fox Advertising Solutions who volunteered to helped make this event a special experience for the families whose layaways were paid.
Volunteers shared the exciting news with families that their layaways balances were paid off, and also surprised unsuspecting customers with gift cards to Burlington Stores.
Pay Away’s mission is to spread joy and kindness to families. For over 10 years, the organization has surprised unsuspecting families by paying off their layaway balances across the country.
You can help spread holiday cheer this year by making a donation at payaway.org/give
Jenna Bush Hager and Today Join Pay Away in Surprising 210 Families
Brooklyn, NY – Jenna Bush Hager and the Today Show joined Pay Away the Layaway and surprised 210 families at a Burlington Store in Brooklyn on November 15, 2023.
Pay Away volunteers were joined by Jenna Bush Hager as they set to work, getting ready to deliver the surprise of a lifetime to families gathered at the Brooklyn store.
“We’ve heard so much about so many families struggling this year, and really stretching to make the holiday what they want it to be,” said Executive Director Julie Sullivan, as volunteers gathered 210 layaways containing children’s toys and clothing, preparing for the big surprise.
As Jenna delivered the news that their balances had been paid in full, the crowd erupted into celebration from tears of joy, to dancing. Grateful customers received their layaway balances filled with holiday gifts for loved ones.
Pay Away’s mission is to spread joy and kindness to families. For over 10 years, the organization has surprised unsuspecting families by paying off their layaway balances across the country.
You can help spread kindness this year by making a donation at payaway.org/give
98 Families Surprised by NY Jets Linebacker Jermaine Johnson
Harlem, NY - Pay Away the Layaway and NY Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson surprised 98 families at a Burlington Store in Harlem on December 5, 2023.
Johnson joined Pay Away to deliver the good news that holiday layaway balances had been paid in full, and recipients were able to bring their layaways home that day.
One customer gratefully said, "There are still people who do kind things in this world."
Pay Away’s mission is to spread joy and kindness to families. For over 10 years, the organization has surprised unsuspecting families by paying off their layaway balances across the country.
You can help spread kindness this year by making a donation at payaway.org/give
68 Families Surprised at Citi Trends Stores in Fort Myers
Fort Myers, FL - Pay Away the Layaway surprised 68 families at Citi Trends stores in Fort Myers on December 4, 2023.
Pay Away was joined by local supporters, Tom and Margie Hurwich, who helped make this event a special experience for the families whose layaways were paid off.
Many were surprised and overjoyed to learn that their layaways were being paid off in full.
"This is the best blessing I could have never even imagined. I was trying to figure out how I could pay for this whole layaway, and then I got the phone call. I have 10 grandkids, and all of this—it's presents for them," said one thankful recipient.
Pay Away’s mission is to spread joy and kindness to families. For over 10 years, the organization has surprised unsuspecting families by paying off their layaway balances across the country.
You can help spread holiday cheer this year by making a donation at payaway.org/give
Uniting for Good: Your Role in the Power of Kindness Movement
As we stand on the threshold of GivingTuesday, our hearts are brimming with gratitude for the journey we've shared together. With the “Power of Kindness" as our guiding star, we've come together as a community to celebrate the magic of compassion and generosity. Today, we're taking a moment to reflect on your role – the heart and soul of this movement.
Champions of Kindness: You Make the Difference
Throughout this campaign, we've witnessed the incredible impact that the “Power of Kindness" can have. From the heartwarming stories you've read to the inspiration you've ignited within your circles, your participation has been nothing short of remarkable. It's your belief in the potential of kindness that has brought us here, and it's your unwavering support that propels us forward.
Creating Connection, Fostering Change
As we look ahead to GivingTuesday, we want you to know that you are at the heart of everything we do. Your support has made it possible to spread kindness, create joy, and make a difference in the lives of countless families. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of goodness we're weaving together.
A Promise for the Future
As we eagerly countdown the last few days until GivingTuesday, we invite you to reflect on the journey we've shared. Let your heart swell with pride at the stories you've helped bring to life and the lives you've touched. While GivingTuesday is a momentous day, our movement is not confined to a single day – it's a promise to continue embracing kindness, compassion, and the spirit of giving.
Your involvement, whether through sharing stories, making donations, or spreading awareness, has brought us to this pivotal moment. Together, let's embrace the anticipation of GivingTuesday and the incredible impact we're poised to create.
Thank you for being the heartbeat of this movement. Let's make GivingTuesday a day to remember, fueled by the power of our shared kindness.
NY Giants Linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux Surprises 64 Families in the Bronx
The Bronx, NY: Pay Away the Layaway kicks off the holidays season by surprising 64 families at Burlington Stores in the Bronx with the New York Giants’ Kayvon Thibodeaux and his Jream Foundation.
The Joy of Giving Back
At Pay Away, we believe in the transformative power of kindness and the incredible impact it can have on individuals and communities. The act of giving back is not just about financial support; it's about spreading joy, creating memories, and reminding each other that we have the power to make a difference in someone's life.
A Surprise Like No Other
As the doors of the Burlington store opened, the excitement was palpable. Families gathered, not fully aware of the incredible surprise that awaited them.
And then, it happened. One by one, layaway balances were cleared, and the reactions were priceless. Tears of gratitude, smiles of disbelief, and heartfelt expressions of thanks filled the air. For 64 families, the burden of holiday expenses had been lifted, allowing them to focus on the joy of the season.
A Special Guest: Kayvon Thibodeaux
Adding to the magic of the day was the presence of Kayvon Thibodeaux, a rising star in the NFL and a true champion of giving back. Kayvon, who plays for the New York Giants, was not just there as a celebrity; he was there as a symbol of hope and inspiration. Through his Jream Foundation, Kayvon has been dedicated to making a positive impact on communities and uplifting those in need.
Kayvon's commitment to creating change was on full display as he joined us in surprising families and sharing moments of genuine connection. His kindness, and willingness to give back exemplify the spirit of our mission.
A Day to Remember
As we reflect on today's event, we are reminded of the boundless potential within each of us to create moments of joy and unity. Our gratitude extends to the Jream Foundation, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and the entire community that came together to make this day possible. It serves as a testament to the power of kindness and the impact we can have when we choose to give back.
Today, we celebrated the magic of community, the spirit of generosity, and the joy of creating unforgettable moments. We look forward to many more opportunities to spread kindness, make a positive impact, and inspire others to join us on this journey of compassion and unity.
Thank You for Your Support
To all those who have supported our mission, whether through donations, volunteer work, or simply by spreading the message of kindness, we extend our heartfelt thanks. Together, we can continue to create a world where small acts of kindness make a big difference, where unity prevails, and where the power of giving back shines brightly.
You can help spread holiday joy this year by making a donation at payaway.org/give
Spotlighting Kindness Heroes: Stories That Warm the Heart
As we journey toward GivingTuesday, we are inspired by remarkable stories about the Power of Kindness. Today, we're thrilled to share a story that truly exemplifies the spirit of Pay Away – a story that showcases how simple acts can spread ripples of kindness.
Ripples of Kindness
Meet the Trejos—a family of six from Worcester, MA. With four school-aged children, the back-to-school season was both exciting and challenging for the Trejos. The excitement of a new school year was tempered by responsibilities of gathering school supplies and clothes for their growing children. The Trejos placed their children's new school clothing on layaway at a local Burlington, in preparation for the upcoming school year.
This year, however, an unexpected act of kindness would lead to an amazing surprise.
It was mid-August when Mrs. Trejo received a call from Burlington, asking the family to come to the store. Mr. Trejo arrived at the store where a representative from Pay Away the Layaway delivered the news that their entire layaway balance had been paid off.
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Mr. Trejo shared that the family regularly donates clothing and shoes to other families. The kindness and generosity that they regularly put into their community had rippled back to them!
The story of the Trejo family is a reminder that acts of kindness have the power to create a chain reaction of generosity and joy.
Championing Kindness, Creating Joy
The story of the Trejo family is not an isolated incident. They are a testament to the extraordinary potential within each of us to spread kindness and inspire hope in others. Even the simplest gestures can leave an indelible mark on families' lives.
As we celebrate stories of that exemplify the Power of Kindness, let these stories serve as a reminder that we all have the capacity to brighten someone's day. Whether through an act of kindness, or by supporting Pay Away at www.payaway.org/give, you create ripples of joy and positivity.
Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate remarkable individuals who embody the “Power of Kindness." Together, let's make GivingTuesday a day to inspire hope and spread kindness.
Honoring Heroes: Supporting Our Veterans on Veteran's Day
On Veteran's Day, our hearts are filled with gratitude as we reflect on the immense sacrifices made by our veterans and active military personnel. These courageous individuals have dedicated their lives to safeguarding our freedom and protecting our nation. It's a day to honor their unwavering commitment, bravery, and the incredible sacrifices they've made. This Veteran's Day, we invite you to join us in a meaningful gesture to show our deep gratitude and support for these heroes.
A Call to Action: Donate Today
By making a donation today, you have the power to make a significant impact on the lives of our veterans and active military personnel. Your generosity goes beyond words and directly supports those who have served our country with honor and dedication.
Your donation will be utilized to pay off layaway balances for military families, ensuring that they can provide essential items for their loved ones. In the spirit of the holiday season, this small but meaningful gesture allows us to express our appreciation for their service and alleviate their financial burden during this special time of year.
Unity and Compassion Define Our Nation
As we celebrate the heroes who have selflessly dedicated their lives to our country, let's unite as a community and make a difference. Our collective support is a testament to the unity and compassion that define our nation. It's a reminder that, together, we can uplift those who have sacrificed so much for us.
Thank You for Your Generosity
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you for considering this opportunity to give back on Veteran's Day. Your support makes it possible for us to make a significant impact on the lives of those who have made tremendous sacrifices on our behalf. Together, we can create positive change and demonstrate our unwavering support for our veterans and active military personnel.
This Veteran's Day, let's come together as a community to honor and uplift our heroes. Your donation is a powerful way to express your gratitude and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Join us in celebrating their service and dedication.
Thank you for your generosity and for being a part of this mission to support those who have sacrificed so much for us.
The Power of Kindness
It's that time of the year when we gear up for a heartwarming adventure that's bound to fill your days with warmth, smiles, and a dash of magic. Drumroll, please... it's time to unveil the theme of our upcoming GivingTuesday campaign and trust us, it's a theme that'll tug at your heartstrings in the most delightful way possible. Introducing "The Power of Kindness."
What's This All About?
We believe in the extraordinary magic that unfolds when a simple act of kindness takes center stage. Imagine a world where even the smallest gestures can light up someone's day and bring joy to families in need. That's the world we're committed to creating through our "The Power of Kindness" campaign. It's all about spreading smiles, making a positive impact, and reminding each other that we have the power to make a difference, one small act at a time.
Why "The Power of Kindness"?
Let's be real – life can sometimes be a whirlwind of busyness and hustle. But amidst it all, there's something incredibly special about extending a hand to someone in need, surprising them with unexpected joy, and witnessing the magic of their reactions. From the spark of a child's eyes when they unwrap a long-awaited gift to the sigh of relief from a parent receiving a helping hand during back-to-school time, these moments of kindness hold a power that's beyond measure.
How Can You Join the Fun?
We're glad you asked! This campaign isn't just about us; it's about the collective strength of our community. We invite you to hop on this joyous bandwagon and spread kindness in any way you can. Whether it's sharing our campaign stories, participating in our social media challenges, or even starting your own ripple of kindness in your neighborhood, your actions matter and can inspire a wave of positivity.
Get Ready for the Adventure!
Starting today, get ready to embark on a heartwarming adventure with us. Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing stories that'll warm your heart, anecdotes that'll make you smile, and sneak peeks into the incredible impact your kindness has had on families across the nation. And trust us, you won't want to miss a single moment.
So, whether you're a long-standing supporter or a newfound friend, let's come together to celebrate "The Power of Kindness." It's about turning moments into memories, and through this campaign, we're setting out to do just that.
Stay tuned, spread the word, and let's make this GivingTuesday a day of magic, smiles, and boundless kindness!
Back to School Magic: Spreading Joy and Kindness
As the summer days slowly give way to the crisp air of fall, a new school year is just beginning. At Pay Away, we believe that every child deserves to start their school journey with excitement, confidence, and a dash of magic. That's why our Back to School campaign was designed to spread joy and kindness to families in need, creating heartwarming moments that will last a lifetime.
A Ripple of Kindness: The Back to School Campaign
Imagine the scene – Burlington and Citi Trends stores in Massachusetts and Rhode Island along with Army and Air Force Exchange Services across the country, filled with the hustle and bustle of families preparing for the upcoming school year. What made this year truly special was the Back to School campaign orchestrated by Pay Away. With hearts full of compassion and a mission to create lasting memories, we embarked on a journey to pay off layaway balances for 350 families.
Denisse's Bright Beginning
Among the countless smiles and heartwarming stories, one story that touched us deeply was that of Denisse. A young girl with dreams as big as the sky, Denisse was eagerly awaiting the new school year. She had her heart set on one thing – a brand-new backpack and lunchbox that would make her first day of school even more special.
The Back to School campaign brought a touch of magic to Denisse’s life. As she walked into the store, her eyes lit as she saw her backpack and lunchbox, waiting just for her. The joy radiating from her was infectious, and the gratitude in her heart was palpable. It was a moment that captured the true essence of our campaign – turning dreams into reality and creating memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of families like Denisse's.
The Heart of the Campaign
The Back to School campaign wasn't just about backpacks and lunchboxes; it was about so much more. It was about spreading kindness, about uplifting families who were facing financial challenges, and about ensuring that every child had the opportunity to start the school year with hope and excitement.
The families we reached out to weren't just beneficiaries of our campaign – they became part of a larger movement, a community of kindness that thrived on shared moments and shared dreams. The impact of our campaign rippled far beyond the stores and layaway counters; it touched lives, united communities, and created connections that will last a lifetime.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As we reflect on the Back to School campaign, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who supported us. Your belief in the power of kindness made this campaign a reality, and your contributions created moments of magic that will never be forgotten.
As the school bells ring and children step into their classrooms, let's remember the joy and hope that the Back to School campaign brought to families like Denisse's. It's a reminder that when we come together, even the smallest acts of kindness can create a world of difference.
Thank you for being part of our journey to spread joy and kindness. Stay tuned as we continue to weave stories of compassion and transform lives, one moment of magic at a time.
Pay Away Fulfills Wish Lists for 153 Foster Children
Massachusetts - In an effort to continue the mission of inspiring hope and spreading kindness, Pay Away has partnered with Rise Above to pay off the wish lists of children in foster care. Rise Above provides Massachusetts children in foster care with enriching activities, opportunities and experiences.
Working with a group of donors dedicated to expanding Pay Away’s mission, a donation was made to Rise Above that provided:
- 125 youth with participation in after-school activities
- 13 young adults with needed items for their dorm rooms
- 15 youth with laptops
Providing these resources and experiences in extracurricular activities improves academic achievement, decreases risk of dropping out of school, builds confidence, promotes mental health, and helps youth feel a sense of belonging.
Rise Above Co-founder and Executive Director Sarah Baldiga shares, “Rise Above is honored to have partnered with Pay Away in our mission to give youth in foster care access to extracurricular activities. We are united in our passion and work to give all kids a joyful childhood and to help them build positive childhood memories. We're incredibly grateful for Pay Away's support!”
“Pay Away the Layaway’s mission is to inspire hope and spread kindness, and we are grateful for the opportunity to expand into supporting children in foster care,” said founder Lee Karchawer.
You can help Pay Away continue to expand its mission of paying off wish lists to inspire hope and spread kindness by making a donation at payaway.org/give.