On a crisp December morning, the United team arrived at NorthPointe Church in Burleson. Preparations were already underway. Toys stretched across tables and into every corner of the room as volunteers prepared the space for families arriving for the holiday toy drive.

Bringing the spirit of the season and a willingness to serve, United employees were among more than 300 volunteers who showed up at the church’s gymnasium to help Kaleigh’s Sleigh prepare for the organization’s largest day of the year.  

Each year since its inception, Kaleigh’s Sleigh has provided toys to more than 950 children across more than 300 Johnson County families, with that number surpassing 1,000 children this December. 

Julie said the demand underscores the challenges some families face during the holidays.

Kaleigh’s Sleigh is a ministry-based holiday toy drive benefiting Johnson County families. Founded in 2021 by local business owners Julie and Jeff Pool, the organization is named in honor of Kaleigh Rhea Moss, a family friend who died in 2020 at age 22 from a pulmonary embolism.

“We want Kaleigh’s Sleigh to be there for families who are in a hard season and don’t know where else to turn,” Julie said. “Sometimes people just need to know there’s a place that will meet them with compassion.” 

“Seasonal expenses, rising costs and unexpected hardships can place added strain on household budgets during the holidays. Kaleigh’s Sleigh helps to fill a gap for families who may not qualify for traditional assistance but still need support during the season,” she said.

United CEO Cameron Smallwood,was among the volunteers helping ready the space for families who would soon arrive for their big holiday shopping day. 

“Supporting children and families during the holiday season, especially in our own community, reflects the heart of cooperative service,” he said. “Serving close to home is an important part of what United is here to do.”

For Julie, the scale of volunteer support is both essential and humbling, she said.

“Every year, the number of volunteers who show up is overwhelming in the best possible way. This event simply wouldn’t happen without them. When you see hundreds of people giving their time to help families they may never meet again, it’s a good reminder of how much good exists in this community.” 

For more than 20 years, the Pool family has made giving to local families a central part of their Christmas season. It wasn’t until 2021 when they formally named their annual toy drive Kaleigh’s Sleigh and established it as 501(c)(3) nonprofit. 

“We started collecting toys when our kids were young because we wanted them to grow up understanding the reason for the season and the importance of helping families right here at home,” Julie said. 

Behind the scenes, preparation for the toy drive takes place year-round. Each November, the organization begins collecting toys and other donations through participating drop-off locations, including 37 businesses across Johnson County this year.

Board members also shop throughout the year, storing items until shopping day, which runs from 9 a.m.—2:30 p.m. on the Saturday before Christmas, or until all toys are handed out. 

Russell Young, United’s chief financial officer, emphasized the importance of contributing behind the scenes. 

“Being part of the preparation shows just how much care goes into making this day possible,” Young said. “Even without seeing the families receive their gifts, it’s clear how meaningful this effort is and how many people it takes to make it happen.” 

During the toy drive, families take part in a 45-minute guided experience designed to offer choice, dignity and support. Age-organized rooms are stocked with toys, electronics, clothing and everyday items, while volunteers assist with gift selection, wrapping and loading. On-site child care allows parents to shop while volunteers supervise children in a dedicated activity area. 

The need is evident in Johnson County, where registration for Kaleigh’s Sleigh filled the same day it opened, reflecting both the demand for holiday assistance and the role the event plays for families seeking local support. 

To qualify for Kaleigh’s Sleigh, families must live in Johnson County and register online.

“The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be
hard, and that’s why this matters,” Julie said. “As long as there are families who need support, we’ll keep finding ways to grow, adapt and make sure this remains a place they can turn to.”