In an economy where the upcoming holiday season appears that for many, it will be less than “merry and bright” and more people than ever will likely need some form of charitable assistance, a rapidly spreading Christmas tradition is bringing hope to thousands around the globe.

The Christmas Jars movement, begun in 2005, is aptly name after the New York Times bestseller Christmas Jars. With nearly a half-million copies in circulation, readers have adopted the tradition memorialized in the fictional tale—to fill a jar with spare change and then give it anonymously to someone in need at Christmas. The tradition lives on in author Jason Wright’s newest book, Christmas Jars Reunion (Shadow Mountain Publishing, Oct. 2009, ISBN: 978-1-60641-165-0, Hardcover, $17.95).

What began as an experiment by the author’s family has now turned into a national “pay it forward” movement of giving. Hundreds of readers have emailed Wright, sharing their experiences of giving jars; he also has received many touching accounts from those receiving jars. “This small action has the potential to heal families, teach people how to give again, and show those who need help that they are remembered,” Wright said.

While there is no way of knowing just how extensive the ‘Christmas Jars’ movement has become, (the idea is to give a jar anonymously), Wright divulges that he’s aware of communities in 39 states across the country where jars are being given. He has also heard from individuals in Canada, England, Taiwan, Ukraine, and Italy.

Christmas Jars Reunion follows the story of Hope Jensen and her goal to place 1,001 jars of spare change with families in need. Among others helping her reach her goal is Clark Maxwell, a potential love interest, where romance has never been Hope’s strong suit. As Christmas day draws near, Hope learns the most important lesson of the Christmas Jar – that giving is really all about the “one.”

Wright is also trying to teach children to start the giving tradition early in life with his new children’s picture book, Penny’s Christmas Jar Miracle (Shadow Mountain Publishing, Oct. 2009, ISBN: 978-1-60641-167-4, Hardcover, $17.95). Featuring beautiful illustrations by Ben Sowards, Penny’s Christmas Jar Miracle tells the story of a little girl whose Christmas Jar blesses an entire neighborhood.

For more information about this movement, to read real-life accounts of Christmas Jars, and to learn more about author Jason Wright, visit ChristmasJars.com.
Christmas Jars Reunion is available in bookstores and online October 1.