MURFREESBORO, TN - Renee Barker still remembers the first time she walked through the doors of the Child Advocacy Center. It was during a United Way Catalyst program tour, and what she saw left a lasting impression. “What I saw there intrigued my mind and my heart,” she recalled. Today, Barker serves as operations and community impact director at First Baptist Church, a 172-year-old congregation on East Castle Street that has become a steady partner in the CAC's annual Secret Santa program.

With 3,000 members, the church is deeply woven into the fabric of Rutherford County. From adopting schools and nursing homes to sponsoring a prison ministry and offering free music classes, its outreach is wide-ranging. Each December, the church also opens its doors to families served by the Child Advocacy Center, providing the location where gifts are distributed.

Founded in 2000, the Child Advocacy Center is a nonprofit dedicated to safety, justice, and healing for victims of child abuse, child sexual abuse, and drug-endangered children. Over the past 25 years, it has served more than 50,000 people, including 21,000 children. Its Secret Santa program alone reaches about 300 people annually, ensuring families receive not only toys but also essentials like cleaning supplies, linens, and cookware.

Family Services Coordinator Jennifer Darnell says, "The program is about more than presents. Child abuse takes a toll on the entire family. Sometimes Christmas gifts become a luxury".

Sponsors, who shop from family wish lists or provide gift cards, drop off wrapped gifts at First Baptist Church on December 11 and 12, 2025. That same afternoon, families arrive to pick them up, often with smiles that remind staff of the true spirit of Christmas.

Local businesses also join in. Stonebrook Day School, serving Murfreesboro families for 24 years, helps multiple families each year and provides supplies the CAC needs. “Our school families all get involved,” said owner Jody Barger.

Darnell says the joy of seeing families thrive keeps her motivated. “We always welcome more sponsors,” she added. To sponsor a family, contact jdarnell@cacrutherford.org or (615) 867-9000. In Cannon County, reach Amanda Hammond at ahammond@cannoncac.org or (615) 563-9915.