We are thrilled to spotlight Linda Melton, Fulton Bank Community Outreach Officer, Fair and Responsible Banking, and the 2024 Henrico Christmas Mother. The Henrico Christmas Mother is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission of providing food, new clothing, books, toys, and other gift items to qualifying Henrico County families with children, seniors and adults with disabilities during the holiday season – a tradition that began in 1942.

Your mother, Charlotte Melton, was the 2000 Henrico Christmas Mother. What inspired you to carry on her legacy and get involved with the Henrico Christmas Mother program?

I started volunteering with Henrico Christmas Mother (HCM) with my mother which was prior to her becoming HCM 2000.  It’s an opportunity to provide a service to the community during a time of the year when everyone should feel good.  It is an honor to be the first legacy.

In your role at Fulton Bank, you are responsible for delivering the Fulton Forward initiatives in the Richmond area, including affordable housing programs, job training and workforce development, financial education and more. How does your role as the Henrico Christmas Mother align with the overall mission of Fulton Forward?

Fulton Bank believes in Changing Lives for the Better.  While working with recipients of HCM I can use my banking background to answer questions they may have while visiting the warehouse.

Can you share some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had in your work with the Henrico Christmas Mother over the years? Are there any stories that have particularly stayed with you?

I recently met a recipient who shared her experience.  The recipient has two sets of twins and a single child.  She was so excited to receive the services of HCM.  She stated that HCM gave her the ability to make Christmas wonderful for her children.

What are some of the biggest challenges the program faces during the holiday season, and how do you work to overcome them?

Making sure that we have sufficient clothing, books, food, gift cards for perishable foods, and toys to serve all in need.  Cash donations are the best way to help HCM. 

How has the program evolved over the years, and what new initiatives or changes are you implementing this year?

The number of families served increases annually.  This year was the first annual for Making Spirits Bright Night.  This annual Gala was held at Virginia Cliffe Inn and will continue to be a major fundraiser.  The recipients represent a very diverse segment of Henrico County residents.  The partnership between Henrico County Public Schools and Henrico County employees has grown significantly since my mother was HCM2000. 

How can the community best support the Henrico Christmas Mother program? What are some ways people can get involved, even if they cannot contribute financially?

Visit the Henrico Christmas Mother website at HenricoChrismasMother.org to sign up for volunteer opportunities.  People can develop fundraisers with proceeds donated to HCM.  The application process has ended for 2024 but letting people know about HCM is very helpful.