Good News of Christmas Case Stories

This family of five is grateful for the steady presence of both grandmothers, who lend their support whenever they can despite their own health challenges. Life changed in an instant with the arrival of twin boys. What should have been a season of joy was instead marked by setbacks, months of hospital stays, and worry that seemed unending. Through it all, Dad managed the daily rhythms of home life and cared for their toddler daughter, while local agencies stepped in with support until the family could finally be reunited under one roof.

Now, they are doing their best to move forward. When Dad’s hours were cut, he found new work, though it requires a long commute and leaves the family’s only vehicle gone much of the day. Mom stays behind, tending to three small children and managing a home without air conditioning. Twin blessings also bring twin needs. At times, the daily demands feel overwhelming. Everyday essentials of sheets, baby food, snacks, cleaning supplies, and hygiene products are stretched until there is nothing left, and replacing them is a constant financial strain.

As Christmas approaches, their hopes are simple. The four-year-old dreams of a purple or pink bike with training wheels, a yellow princess dress, and a Minnie Mouse grocery shopping cart play set. She also delights in the adventures of Bluey. For the twins, light-up balance bikes in blue and green would be a delight, along with sensory toys, colorful bath toys, pajamas, bibs, and baseball hats. Their parents ask for nothing more than joy for their children, though Mom has a fondness for elephants and Dad still treasures dragons and a love of firefighting.

In their small but cozy home, this family delights in the everyday gift of being together. The Good News of Christmas would mean comfort in the basics and the wonder of seeing their children’s faces light up on Christmas morning.

Wish List:
Home - King Size Sheets (Black or Bright Blue), Cleaning Supplies (Mop, Gain Laundry Liquid Soap, Dish Soap), Room AC Unit (10,000 BTU or 12,000BTU), Personal Hygiene Products (Baby Wash, Suave Hair Shampoo & Conditioner, Baby Wipes, Diapers (Size 5)), Kid’s Food (Gerber baby food and strawberry puff for babies or any other snacks – no allergies)
Boy (1) – Toys: 30in Light Up Green Balance Bike, Potty Chair, Flash Beat Drums, Baby Activity Center (Adofi Busy Learning Activity), Bathtub Toys, Play Mat, Light Up Sensory Toys, Stack Ball Track. Clothing: Red, Blue or Green Printed Onesies (18-24 Months), Multi Colored Crew Socks (24 Months), White, Blue or Grey Athletic Light Up Shoes (Size 4), Diapers/Pull-Up (Size 5), Red, Black, or Blue Winter Coat (24 Months), Any Color Matching Pajamas, No Feet (18-24 Months), Waterproof Feeding Bibs, Red or Grey Baseball Style Hats (Toddler Size)
Boy (1) – Toys: 30in Light Up Blue Babyomi Balance Bikes, Potty Chair, Loyfy Montessori Learning Toy, Baby Activity Center, Bathtub Toys, Play Mat, Light Up Sensory Toys, Nuby Sensory Teether up to +3 Clothing: Red, Blue or Green Printed Onesies (18-24 Months), Multi Colored Crew Socks (24 Months), White, Blue or Grey Athletic Light Up Shoes (Size 4), Diapers/Pull-Up (Size 5), Red, Black, or Blue Winter Coat (24 Months), Any Color Matching Pajamas, No Feet (18-24 Months), Waterproof Feeding Bibs, Red or Grey Baseball Style Hats (Toddler Size)
Girl (4) – Toys: 38in Purple, Pink, or Teal Bike with Training Wheels, 13 in 1 Dinosaur Truck Toy, Bluey Pillow Pet, Sleep Time Light Plush Toy With Light Up Stars, Minnie Mouse Shopping Cart and Grocery Set, Doll with Accessories, Water Books, Blue Fire Truck with Bingo, and Blue Battery Operated Toothbrush Clothing: Yellow Princess Dress (4T), Rainbow Colored Underwear (4), Colorful Ankle Socks (4-6), Bluey Character Hair Accessories, Pink or Tan Ballet Shoes (Girls 8), Ballet Clothes (4T), Yellow, Pink or Purple Dresses (4T), and Pull-On Disney Boots (8 Girls)
Mom (29) – Black Women’s Combat Bookts with Zipper (Women’s 10), Bath Bombs and Spa Items, Anything Elephant Related, 64in Blue or Turquoise Adult Bike
Dad (35) – Dark Blue or Brown Cargo Pants (34/30), Dark Blue or Black Cardo Shorts (34), Anything Dragon Related, Anything Firefighter Related, Magic the Gathering Cards.
 

This young family of three is working hard to hold life together on a minimum wage income without benefits. Mom, facing serious health issues and multiple surgeries ahead, is unable to work. Instead, she devotes her days to caring for their one-year-old daughter, whose laughter is often the light in the hardest of days. Dad provides what he can, but the weight of high utility bills in their modest rental and the cost of maintaining a vehicle they cannot afford to keep licensed and insured make each month a struggle. Stability feels just out of reach, yet their determination to keep going remains strong.
The family’s needs are simple but urgent. Bath towels, washcloths, and sheets would ease daily living. Black or gray rugs would help warm the bare floors in their small home, bringing comfort to cold winter mornings. Mom and Dad would both benefit from hard-wearing jeans and everyday hygiene items. For Mom, who rarely thinks of herself, a small splurge would be embroidery or crochet materials, something creative to lift her spirits during long days at home. Dad’s quiet strength holds the family steady, but even he admits that a little relief would go a long way.
As for their little girl, she is the joy that keeps them moving. She would delight in a red rider tricycle, animal books, and musical toys that spark her curiosity. With winter approaching, a purple coat, mittens, and boots would mean she can face the cold in warmth and comfort, ready to play in the snow when it arrives.
For this family, the Good News of Christmas would bring more than just gifts. It would bring relief in the basics, comfort in the season, and the joy of seeing their daughter’s eyes shine with wonder on Christmas morning. In the face of hardship, the chance to celebrate together as a family of three is a gift beyond measure.

Wish List:

Home: Pink, Purple, Grey or Black Crib Bed Set & Sheets, Grey or Black Large Bath Towels and Washcloths, Black or Grey Living Room Rugs, Blue, Black or Grey King Size Fitted Sheet Set
Girl (1) –  Toys: Red, Pink or Purple Red Rider Tricycle, Books about Animals, Bath Toys, Ms. Rachel Tors (Talk and Sing Doll), Despicable Me Minion Toys, Anything Dinosaur, Purple, Black or Pink Soft Cuddle Blanker, and Musical Toys. Clothing: Pink or Purple Winter Carhart Coat (2T), Socks (24 Months), Pull On Pants (2T), Blue or Black Jeans (2T), Shirts (2T), Gloves or Mittens (24 Months), and Winter Pull On Boots (5T)
Mom (24) – Judy Blue KanCan Flare Jeans (18/20 Long), Black Van Old Skool Tennis Shoe (10), Embroidery/Crochet Yarn Hoop, Dove Powder Deodorant, and Harry Razor Heads.
Dad (22) – Dark Blue Ariat/Carhart Work Jeans (32/30), Stone Scent Harry’s Extra Strength Deodorant, Dr. Squatch Bar Soap, Harry’s Exfoliate Facewash, and Knee Socks (9-11)
 

Leaving behind domestic abuse took tremendous courage, but this mother knew she had to create a safer life for her children. Starting over in a new place, without a nearby support system and without child support to rely on, has brought many challenges. Each day is a balancing act of managing her household, caring for three young children, and working toward stability in uncertain circumstances.
Her oldest son, age ten, is autistic. Meeting his needs while helping her seven-year-old daughter and three-year-old son adjust to a new home has stretched her in every way. Even though Mom is often exhausted and uncertain, her determination has not wavered. She is committed to building a future where her children are free from the instability and fear they once knew.
Life in a modest rental brings constant challenges. With only one income and no safety net, even basics like bedding, laundry supplies, and clothing weigh heavily on the family’s limited budget. Still, her children continue to dream. The ten-year-old would love a bike of his own and toys that spark his imagination, like hand puppets or action figures. His little brother delights in Spiderman and Sonic, and his face lights up at the thought of a balance bike or new pajamas. Their sister, just seven, finds joy in art supplies, makeup, and squishy toys she can hold close. Their mom asks for little beyond comfortable clothes to carry her through long days. More than anything, she wants her children to feel safe, loved, and cared for in their new beginning.
For this family, the Good News of Christmas would mean more than gifts under the tree. It would represent the reassurance that their brave choice to start over was met with compassion, community, and the promise of brighter days ahead.

Wish List:

Home – Spiderman Twin Size Comforter & Sheets, Sonic Twin Size Comforter & Sheets, Tye Dye (Girl Colors) Twin Size Comforter & Sheets, Laundry Detergent, Dryer Sheets, and Laundry Basket, and Purple or Black Queen Comforter & Sheet Set.
Boy (3) – Toys: Balance Bike, Anything Spiderman, Anything Sonic the Hedgehog, and Playdough. Clothing: Sweatpants (4T), Long Sleeve Shirts (4T), Spiderman PJ’s (4T), Crew Socks (Shoe Size 8-9)
Boy (10) – Toys:  20in Bike, Hand Puppets, lanky Box, and K Pop Demon Hunters. Clothing: Athletic Pants (Men’s L), Long Sleeve Shirts (Men’s L), Underwear (Men’s L), and Crew Sock (Shoe Size Men’s 8.5)
Girl (7) – Toys: 18in Bike, Squishmallows, K Pop Demon Hunters, Art Supplies, Floral Scented Body Lotion & Spray, Fingernail Polish, Make Up. Clothing: Leggings (8), Long Sleeve Shirts (8), Underwear (8), and Long Socks (Shoe Size 2)
Mom (38) – Black or Grey Sweatpants (L), Black or Grey Sweatshirt (XL), Black or Grey T-Shirts (XL), and Black Crew Socks (Shoe Size 7).

This grandmother worked hard her entire life and looked forward to retirement. She imagined it as a deep exhale, a season of rest and self-care after raising her family. But retirement didn’t bring the quiet she expected. One of her children began a struggle that continues to this day, and when the father of her two grandsons passed away, she stepped in.

At ages 16 and 10, the boys still feel the ache of their father’s absence. The grandmother opened her home to them so her daughter could focus on her own healing. Not long after, her 4-year-old granddaughter also came to live with her and the boys. What was once a household of rest has been transformed into a lively home of children again.

There is laughter and joy, but also challenges. Her brief retirement did not prepare her for the emotional and physical demands of raising children once more. The teenager is finding his independence, navigating life as only teens can. The 10-year-old pushes past his physical limitations with unstoppable enthusiasm, sometimes to her worry. And the 4-year-old, with sparkling eyes and a love for all things Frozen, Barbie, and pink, brings a kind of magic that lights up the house.

Each child has their own joys: the teen loves Marvel, Hot Wheels, Legos, and would be grateful for personal care items and even a black oscillating fan, a memory of his late father. The 10-year-old barrels through life with energy, while his little sister delights in the simple wonders of childhood.

As for grandmother, her heart is for the children. When pressed, she admits she loves curling up with a good mystery novel by Lisa Jackson or Sandra Brown, and she treasures the warm glow of scented candles. Practical needs also weigh on the home: a vacuum and an air fryer would make daily life easier.

The Good News of Christmas for this family would be the gift of relief. Seeing her grandchildren receive wrapped presents, chosen with care, is a blessing she never imagined for herself or her family.

Wish List:

Home – Ninja Air Fryer, Sweeper Vacuum, Pot and Pan Set, Laundry & Dish Soap, Any Color of Kitchen & Bath Towels
Boy (16) – Toys:  Black Bike, Black Oscillating Fan (Like His Dad Had), Legos, Roblox, Bobbleheads, and Old Spice Shampoo, Deodorant & Body Wash. Clothing: Black Hoodies (Men’s XL), Jeans (33x33), Short Sleeve Shirts (Men’s XL), and Black Socks (Men’s Size 10).
Boy (10) – Toys: Black Bike, Legos, Hot Wheels, and Anything Marvel. Clothing: Elastic Waste Pants (14), Jeans (14), Short Sleeve Shirts (L), Black Socks (6), and Tennis Shoes (6)
Girl (4) – Toys:  Pink Bike with Training Wheels, Anything From Frozen, barbies, Wooden Puzzles, and Bluey or Frozen Books. Clothing: Pink Pants & Tops (6/6X), Socks (10), and Tennis Shoes (10)
Grandma (74) – Black or Dark Green Down/Puffer Knee Length Coat (Women’s M), Sweatshirts (Women’s L), Mystery Books by Lisa Jackson or Sandra Brown, and Personal Care Items Such as Lotion and Candles. 
 

Teaching is one of the most demanding yet rewarding careers a person can choose. For this mother, the school day does not end when the bell rings. She returns home each evening to two young children, with a third on the way, and pours the same patience and energy into her family that she gives to her students. Every day requires her to meet both practical and emotional needs:  multiplying love, encouragement, and care for all of “her children.”

She lost her own mother, her closest support, just a few years ago, and without help from the children’s father, every expense rests on her shoulders. A single income stretches only so far, yet she continues forward with determination, motivated by the joy she sees reflected in her children’s eyes.

Her oldest, a 9-year-old, is tenderhearted and deeply compassionate, especially toward animals. She lights up on the soccer field and comes alive with art projects; paints, crafts, bracelet making, or even building an animal-themed Lego set. Soccer clothing and warm boots would make winter brighter for her.
Her 6-year-old son is a bundle of curiosity, happiest when he is outdoors exploring the world of bugs, trees, and dirt. He would treasure a bug kit with a magnifier and book to study his discoveries or to spend hours playing with a Ninja Turtles helicopter or a Lego City set. He also loves the chance to kick a soccer ball or shoot hoops, fully “all boy, through and through."

This mother’s third child, a little girl soon to arrive, will need the entire newborn list: diapers, wipes, formula, and all the daily supplies that never last long enough. Sheets for all their beds, a microwave and a set of pots and pans to replace the single worn skillet would make home life easier. And for Christmas morning, small treasures like candy and trinkets tucked into stockings would be an extra joy for them all.

When asked what she wants most for her family, this mother does not hesitate. Her greatest hope is that her children will always know they are loved. With the generosity of a caring community, that lesson, her most important one, can shine even brighter with the Good News of Christmas.

Wish List:

Home – Microwave, Kitchen Shelving/Rack, Pot & Pan Set with a Skillet, Twin Sheets (Girl) – Not Cream or White, Twin Sheets (Boy) – Patterned, Candy & Trinkets for the Kids’ Stockings, Laundry Soap, Kitchen Hand Soap, and Bath Hand Soap
Boy (6) – Toys:  Red or Black Bike, Ninja Turtles Helicopter, Cars Remote Control, Any Lego City, Bug/Insect Kit w/ magnifier, Book Identifier, Net, Etc, and Doodle Drawing Sketch Book w/ Pens/Markers,. Clothing: Black and Grey Sweatpants (M), Sports/Outdoor T-Shirts (M), Sports/Outdoor Sweatshirts (M), Tennis Shoes (1.5), Snow Boots (1.5), and Crew Cut Socks.
Girl (9) – Toys: Yellow, Pink or Purple Bike, Barbie with Animal Included, Paints & Craft Boxes, Lego & Friends or a Make an Animal Lego, Bracelet Making Supplies, and Stuffed Animals (Cats or Anything) Clothing: Black/Neutral Leggings (10-12), Snow Boots (3.5), Sweatshirts (10-12), Any Soccer Themed Clothing (10-12), and No Show Socks
Girl (1Mo) – Toys:  Bath Towels & Washcloths, Tub Toys (Washable/Waterproof Books), Neutral Colored Clothing Chest/Organizer, Baby Bath Soap & Lotion (Aveeno), Diapers (All Sizes), and Wipes, Diaper Ointment, and Aquafor Clothing: Purple Sleepers (6-12Mo), Baby Blanket, Crib Sheets, and Baby Socks.
Mom (29) – Anything Lakers, Work Clothing – High Waisted Jeans (16 Tall), Black Mascara, Light Blue Full Size Comforter, Dove Shampoo/Conditioner, Unscented Body Wash, and Nivea Shea Butter Lotion.

Difficult choices. Every single day, tough decisions. That is how this family describes daily life. Each week brings the same question: which bill gets paid and which need goes unmet. Some days they are counting coins to make it to the next paycheck, doing their best to stretch every dollar. Their family of three is soon to become four, with a second daughter expected in November, and the pressure of living so close to the edge only grows heavier.

Even so, there is gratitude for what they do have, and hope for what may come. Fresh sheets, blankets, and pillowcases would bring comfort to tired nights. Everyday essentials like laundry soap, dish soap, toilet paper, diapers, and wipes disappear as soon as they are purchased, leaving constant gaps that are hard to fill. These simple items would not just feel like Christmas to this family; they are the very gifts that bring security in stocked supplies.

Their six-year-old daughter dreams not of basics but of Play Doh, paints, and plush animals, timeless toys that spark creativity and comfort. Soon her baby sister will arrive, a new miracle who will need everything to stay safe, warm, and cared for: sleepers, blankets, and crib toys. It is difficult to think about how her needs will grow in the next year when daily life demands so much attention in the present. For the parents, modest requests reflect their humility, only asking for new, comfortable clothing and essentials for a change. Still, a few unasked-for surprises tucked under the tree would remind them that generosity is full of wonder, and that joy can find its way into their home.

This season, the Good News of Christmas could lift difficult choices off this family’s shoulders and replace them with peace, comfort, and the warmth of being remembered.

Wish List:

Home – Laundry Soap, Dish Soap, Toilet Paper, Huggies Diapers (Newborn to 1), King Size Sheets and Pillowcases, Waterproof Twin Size Sheet Set and Pillowcases, King Size and Twin Size Blankets, and Baby Wipes.
Girl (6) – Toys:  Pink Bike, Any kind of plushie, Play Doh with Play Doh Tools and Kits, Paint Canvases and Paint Set, Anything Pomni from Digital Circus, Minecraft, and Roblox related Clothing: Short Sleeve Shirts (YL, 10/12), Long Sleeve Shirts (YL, 10/12), and Leggings (YL, 10/12)
Newborn – Toys: Any Baby Toys, Baby Blanket, Crib Sheets Clothing: Onesies (0-3 Months), Baby Socks, and Sleepers (0-3 Months)
Mom (27) – Workout Clothes (4XL), Short Sleeve Shirts (4XL), Leggings (4XL), and Nursing Bras (3XL) 
Dad (29) – Short Sleeve Shirts (5XL), Shorts (3XL), and Sweatpants (3XL)
 

Countdown 18, 16, 14, 13, 11. No numbers are missing, these are the ages of five teenagers all living together under one roof with Mom and Dad. It is a full house in every sense of the word. Dad is doing his best to keep the family moving forward, while Mom’s chronic health struggles make steady work difficult, leaving disability income as their primary support. Raising teenagers is never simple, but when autism is part of daily life, the challenges multiply and the weight on a family grows heavier.

Some gifts are too large to wrap but hold more hope than any shiny package. A box spring for one and mattresses for others would bring relief and joy that lasts long past the holidays. Smoke detectors, a silverware set, and pots and pans may seem ordinary, but in a home where everything is stretched to the limit, they would be used every single day and stand as reminders that even the simplest gifts can bring comfort and stability.

Each child dreams of something that reflects their age and personality. The oldest daughter at eighteen delights in Roblox and anime, especially Hazbin Hotel merchandise. Her brother at sixteen hopes for a bicycle, a chance to taste freedom and independence, along with model airplanes and tanks to build and admire. At fourteen, one daughter longs for a television, a chance to make her own choices and enjoy some personal space. Her younger sister, thirteen, is all about volleyball, hoping for equipment and apparel to fuel her passion for the game. The youngest at eleven is filled with excitement for Chicago Bears gear and WWE action figures.

The parents, too, have their quiet wishes. A toolbox for Dad would help him stay organized, while an ice cream maker would bring joy to the whole family, letting them create sweet treats together at home.

This Christmas, the United Way of Adams County Good News of Christmas can transform a home filled with the challenges of raising five teenagers into a home filled with laughter and gratitude. It is the kind of miracle that reminds families that they are not forgotten.

Wish List:

Home – Full Size Box Spring, Smoke Detectors, Pot and Pan Set, Twin Size Mattress, and Silverware Set.
Boy (16) – Toys:  A Black Bike, Model Airplanes, Model Tanks, and Anything Roblox Clothing: Short Sleeve Shirts (Men’s XL), Long Sleeve Shirts (Men’s XL) and Sweatpants (Men’s XL)
Boy (11) – Toys: WWE Action Figures, Anything Chicago Bears, Roblox, Fortnite Clothing: Long Sleeve Shirts (Men’s M), Sweatpants (Men’s S), Sweatshirts (Men’s M), and Short Sleeve Shirts (Men’s M)
Girl (18) – Toys: Hazbin Hotel (Anime) Merch, Minecraft, and Roblox Clothing: Red or Black Sweatshirts (Women’s – 3XL), Red or Black Long Sleeve Shirts (Women’s – 3XL), and Red or Black Short Sleeve Shirts (Women’s 3XL)
Girl (14) – Toys: Small TV for Her Bedroom, Roblox Clothing: Sweatshirts (Plus Size Women’s 1XL), Long Sleeve Shirts (Plus Size Women’s 1XL), and Shorts Sleeve Shirts (Plus Size Women’s 1XL)
Girl (13) – Toys: Sam & Colby (Youtubers) Merch, Loves Volleyball and Anything Related to it, and Roblox Clothing: Blue Sweatshirts (Women’s XL), Blue Long Sleeve Shirts (Women’s 1XL), and Blue Short Sleeve Shirts (Women’s XL)
Mom (37) – Ninja Creami and Sweatshirts (Women’s 3XL)
Dad (37) – Chromebook, Tool Box to Separate Tools and Sweatshirts (Men’s 3XL)

For this small family, 2025 has been filled with heartbreak. Mom passed away last spring, leaving a void like Dad has never known. Now he must focus on their daughter, adjusting at only ten years old to leaving behind the home she once knew as part of a complete family. Even in the midst of grief, she is the light of his life. He sees her optimism and the joy she finds in their new country home, surrounded by cows and calves. Dad knows beyond the sorrow that his daughter has the biggest heart of anyone he has ever known.

Grief counseling is helping them focus on one day at a time, finding small moments of peace amid the loss. The Good News of Christmas could add a little sparkle and bring glimmers of hope on a day that is certain to be both difficult and heartbreaking without Mom.

As Dad navigates the dual role of parent, he thinks of simple items that would help them in daily life: serving spoons, shampoo and conditioner, a mop, and a vacuum. New bedding and comforters in pink or teal for his daughter would bring warmth and comfort. She also needs shoes and delights in dresses, reading, coloring, sketching, experimenting with slime, makeup, and hair supplies. Dad could use new tennis shoes and enjoys anything Star Wars. These small comforts would lighten their days and make the holiday feel a little brighter.

While they know they will eventually be fine, this Christmas is especially difficult. Through these gifts however, they can feel the warmth and care of a community that remembers them, helping to bring hope, comfort, and the promise of brighter days.

Wish List:

Home – Serving Spoons for Mixing, Cooking and Serving, Laundry Soap, Dish Soap, Mop w/ Floor Cleaner, and Bathroom Hand Soap, Vacuum, Shampoo & Conditioner for the Girl, California King Comforter, and a Pink, Purple or Teal Twin Size Comforter
Girl (10) – Toys: Sketch Pad/Coloring Books w/ Pens, Markers, and/or Colored Pencils, 5th Grade Reading Level Books, Falling in Reverse (Band) Merch, Makeup and Hair Supplies, and a Slime Making Kit Clothing: Tennis Shoes (3/4), Shoes (3/4), Shorts for Summertime (10/12) and Dresses (10/12)
Dad (41) – Tennis Shoes (Men’s 11.5), Loves Anime, and Loves Dath Vader and Star Wars 

 

This family is defined by love: a mother, father, daughter, and now a baby boy who arrived against all odds. After years of health struggles and setbacks, they have been blessed with the joy of a son, much to the delight of his older sister who proudly calls him her baby brother. Their home is small but filled with laughter, gratitude, and the immeasurable gift of new life.

The journey to this moment was not easy. It meant years of waiting, countless doctor appointments, and whole seasons lived in uncertainty. Returning to work brought another challenge: finding child care. Repeated calls and referrals led from one closed door after another until an answered prayer appeared in the form of a loving home. This caregiver has embraced not only their son but their entire family.

Still, daily realities weigh heavily. Diapers, wipes, and groceries seem to vanish as quickly as they are purchased. Growing children bring constant needs, and careers in education and industry do not always stretch far enough to cover the extras that make life feel comfortable.

This family enjoys cooking and would be grateful for quality pots and pans. A bedroom nightstand would help with organization. Their daughter, who fills shelves with books and spends hours pretending to be a teacher, would light up with new Barbie sets, Hello Kitty treasures, and twirling dresses. Matching holiday pajamas to share in her brother’s first Christmas would make the season sparkle. For him, sleepers, teethers, and toys like Linkimals that spark learning, and joy would be welcome additions.

This family asks little for themselves, but a Northern Lights projector, bookends, a set of earrings, and the complete Harry Potter Series would be cherished gifts under the tree.

The greatest gift for this family has already come in the arrival of their son. Yet through the United Way of Adams County Good News of Christmas program, they can also experience the joy of being remembered, the relief of shared support, and the blessing of a community that celebrates with them in both gratitude and need.

Wish List:

Home – King Sized, Pleathered Headboard (Neutral Colored), 7.3 Quart Dutch Oven (Gray), 1 Nightstand with Charging Station (Black), Blackout Curtains w/ Rod and Hardware (75in for one set) (40in for the other set)
Boy (6 Months) – Toys: Radio Flyer Push Bike, Teethers, Fisher Price Linkimals, and Any Spaced Themed Toys (For 6-12 Month Olds Clothing: Blue or Green Zipper Sleepers (6, 9 & 12 Month), Infamil Formula, Diapers (2, 3 & 4), and Anything Sea Life (Narwhals Especially)
Girl (10) – Toys: Pink Bike w/ Training Wheels, Hello Kitty Themed Toys & Activities, Barbie Accessories, Little People Toys, Loves to Play “Teacher” – Any Supplies to Support That, and Arts & Crafts (Drawing Supplies) Clothing: Pink and Sparkly Comfy Leggings (7/8), Sweatpants (7/8), Dresses to Twirl (7/8), and Pajamas w/ Shorts (7/8)
Mom (36) – 40oz Purple Stanley, Book Ends, Silver, Nickle Free Earrings, and a Harry Potter Book Set
Dad (37) – Northern Lights Projector, Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers, Dark Colored Short Sleeve Shirts (6X), and Khaki Jeans/Work Pants (52/54)
 

This close family of seven is accustomed to sharing both space and resources. Mom and Dad devote their days to full-time careers, bringing benefit and education to others, and they know the joy of selfless service. Rising costs of home insurance and utilities place a constant strain on their monthly budget, which dwindles far too quickly. Their home, a place of comfort, security, and investment, requires ongoing maintenance. A recent leaky pipe caused damage not covered by insurance, adding financial pressure and concern.

The saying goes that the family that prays together, plays together, and this family lives it fully. Baking supplies and a mixer would enhance their group baking adventures, while each child would enjoy a new bed pillow to rest their heads, reflecting on the joy of Jesus’ birth and family Christmas celebration. Asian food is another family favorite, so a wok and accessories would be a welcome addition to the kitchen. Cleaning up would be easier with a vacuum and a broom, as their beloved family dog sheds frequently. The children would delight in a Doggy Stocking, filled with squeaky toys and treats for their furry companion.

Spanning over ten years of continued blessings added to the family, the three boys and two girls have a wide range of interests and needs. The boys would enjoy a football, a soccer ball, pickleball equipment, and guitar strings, while the girls would be thrilled with graphic novels, stuffed animals such as penguins or pandas, diamond bead art kits, Percy Jackson books, or Lego flower sets. With five children, their passions are as varied as their unique and family-loving personalities. The parents request only work clothing and shoes, although Mom would treasure a crucifix necklace, as she wears little jewelry but would cherish this meaningful gift.

Through the Good News of Christmas, this family can feel the support of a caring community. Their daily perseverance, love for one another, and devotion to serving others remind us that the spirit of Christmas is not only in the gifts we give but in the generosity, hope, and joy we share, guided by faith and the example of the Holy Family.

Wish List:

Home – Baking Supplies – Mixing Bowls, Cookie Sheets, Spatulas, Brownie Pans, Mixer, Assorted Baking Mixes, Wok Pan w/ Accessories, Queen Sheet Sets (Olive Green), 7 Pillows, Broom, Vacuum, and Stocking for the Dog w/ Toys & Treats.
Boy (21) – Toys:  Guitar Strings & Music Books and Pickleball Paddle & Supplies Clothing: Button Down Shirts (XL), Work Pants (34x30), Thin, Black Dress Socks, Black Work Shoes (10.5), and Tennis Shoes (10.5)
Boy (12) – Toys: 10 Speed Blue Bike, Art/Sketch Books w/ Drawing Pencils and Markers, Chess Set, and Percy Jackson Accessories. Clothing: Light Blue, White, Red or Navy Blue Polo Shirts for School (Men’s XL), T-Shirts (Men’s XL), and Sweatpants (Men’s XL).
Boy (11) – Toys: Red Mountain or 10 Speed Bike, Pokemon Cards & Stuffed Animals, Football Practice jersey, and Soccer Ball. Clothing: Red, White or Navy School Polos (L), Black or Khaki Dress Pants (34), T-Shirts (L) and Sweatpants (L)
Girl (19) – Toys: Diamond Art – Beads Picture Craft, Percy Jackson Books, Stickers and Accessories and Legos – Harry Potter or Flower. Clothing: Teal or Blue Work Tops (L), Black Dress Pants (14), Black Leggings (L), Booties (8), and Socks
Girl (10) – Toys: Purple Bike, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Red Panda Themed Anything, Stuffed Animals (Penguins or Red Pandas), Wings of Fire Book Series and Graphic Novels Clothing: Red, Navy or Black Polo Dresses (Girls 18/20), Tights, and Pink or Purple Sweaters/Sweatshirts (Girls 18/20)
Mom (39) – Bright Colored Work Tops (2X), Black or GrayWork Pants/Long Shirts (2X) and a Silver, Nickle Free Cross Necklace (Crusifix)
Dad (38) – Red, Blue or Striped Button Down/Polo Shirts (3X), Pants/Jeans (48x32), White Athletic Socks, Black Nonslip Shoes (12) and White Tennis Shoes (12)