Finding Help for Christmas

Christmas can be a stressful time for all families, but for those struggling financially it can be especially difficult. Every year there are organizations that help families provide gifts for children. Most of them have an early deadline in mid November so you need to start looking right away. Below are some places to contact or ideas of places that may provide help.

Local Schools

Your local school is a great place to start. Some of them provide gifts, but if not, they can direct you on where to call locally.

Local Food Banks

Most food banks and pantries have resources for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Head on over here to find your local food banks or pantries in your area feedingamerica.org/foodbanks and you can also try FoodPantries.org.

Local Churches

If you attend a church, start there. If you do not, call around to local churches to ask if they offer Christmas help. Many of them do and those that do not may offer a list of resources.

Salvation Army

Christmas Angel Tree is a program sponsored by The Salvation Army. To get your child’s name on a tree you must register to receive Christmas toys through your local department of social services or call your local Salvation Army to find out where you can apply for it. Most of the time it’s through Salvation Army.

They will require some simple information from you to determine whether you qualify. Find your local Salvation Army and their contact info salvationarmyusa.org/usn just add your zip code to the top right corner. If you’re having trouble finding yours you can also just look them up in your phone book or call information. Please call right away some places sign-ups have already begun.

Lion's Club

Contact your local Lion's Club to sign up for Christmas help. They are on a first come, first serve basis, so don't wait to call as it fill up fast. Find your local Lion's Club here: https://directory.lionsclubs.org/.

Toys For Tots

Toys for Tots is a great program that collects new, unwrapped toys and allows families to 'shop' for their children and choose items your child would enjoy. You can either call 211 to find a local number to sign up, or you can start at toysfortots.org to find a local campaign

While this is just a small list, it is a great place to start.

Whether you have a lavish Christmas, or a few special gifts under the tree, remember to love those around you and make memories that will last a lifetime.