Project Joy expands to reach every Greenville County school in 2025

United Way calls on community to support local students during the holidays

What began as a small effort to fill a gap in holiday support has grown into a Greenville County tradition of community care. Now in its fifth year, United Way of Greenville County’s Project Joy has expanded to reach every middle and high school in Greenville County, a milestone made possible by the compassion and generosity of local donors, volunteers, businesses, and school partners.

Launched in 2020 during the pandemic, Project Joy was created in response to a growing need: middle and high school students were often left out of traditional holiday programs. While many seasonal drives focus on toys for young children, teens and pre-teens were missing from the lists, despite facing very real challenges.

“Project Joy began with a simple belief, that no student should be overlooked during the holiday season,” said Meghan Barp, president and CEO of United Way of Greenville County. “This program was built to ease the burden many families feel this time of year and to remind students that their community sees them, values them, and believes in them.”

Project Joy was crafted in collaboration with school counselors, social workers, and community organizations to ensure support gets to the students who need it most. Students are referred by school staff who understand their circumstances firsthand.

“From the beginning, Project Joy has been shaped by community input,” said Kelbie Winther, Project Joy Program Director. “We’ve seen how important it is for students to feel supported all year long. After helping them start the year strong through School Tools, Project Joy helps them finish the year with confidence and care.”

Community members, businesses, civic groups, and other organizations are invited to get involved by sponsoring a student and shopping from their personalized wish list, or by giving financially, allowing United Way of Greenville County volunteers to shop on your behalf.

Project Joy is a reminder of who we are when we come together. Join them in making sure no student is left out this holiday season. Sign up to sponsor or donate today at unitedwaygc.org/project-joy.

About United Way of Greenville County

United Way of Greenville County brings people and resources together to build a stronger, more equitable community. Through strategic investments and partnerships, United Way supports programs that help families achieve stability in education, financial well-being, and housing. Learn more at UnitedWayGC.org.