The holiday season is a time for celebration, connection, and giving—but for many, it can also bring challenges and hardship. For families and individuals facing financial difficulties, accessing holiday meals, gifts, and other essentials can feel out of reach. That’s why community-based programs across the state are stepping in to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of the season.

From Christmas baskets filled with the makings of a festive meal to personalized holiday assistance through adoption programs, these resources are here to support individuals and families in need. Whether you’re looking for a warm meal, gifts for your children, or assistance to make the holidays brighter, these services are accessible to everyone, regardless of where you live.

Here’s how these programs can help:

  • Christmas Baskets: Receive a food basket with everything you need for a holiday meal, including a ham, turkey, or other traditional items. Some programs may also include gifts for children or vouchers for holiday essentials.
  • Christmas Meals: Enjoy a hot holiday meal in a community setting or have one delivered to your home if attending in person isn’t possible. These meals provide a chance to celebrate, connect, and share the spirit of the season.
  • Holiday Adoption Programs: Be part of an “Adopt-A-Family” initiative where sponsors provide personalized holiday assistance, such as gifts or food baskets, to families, older adults, or individuals with disabilities.
  • Holiday Gifts/Toys: Programs offering toys, clothing, and other gifts to make the holidays special for children, older adults, and low-income families.

Whether you’re in need of support or looking to give back, these programs embody the true meaning of the season: coming together to uplift one another. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of resources available statewide and by county, ensuring help is accessible wherever you are.

December Resources

Go to How to Help Section >

Help/Assistance

The holiday season can be difficult for those struggling financially, so it’s important to know that help is available. From receiving a warm meal to getting gifts for your children or family, there are various programs ready to provide the support you need. This section will guide you through the different ways you can access these essential services, ensuring that no one has to face the holiday season alone or without support. Whether you need a food basket, a hot meal, or assistance for your family, there are programs and agencies that can make your holiday brighter.

Statewide

Christmas Baskets

Fare for All – Holiday Food Package

  • Address: Sites are located in Anoka, Blue Earth, Carver, Chisago Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, McLeod, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Ramsey, Rice, Sherburne, Stearns, Washington, and Wright counties. Visit website for address locations.
  • Phone: (763)450-3860
  • Serves: Open to all
  • Intake: No pre-registration needed. Visit website for dates and times of locations at each site in the months of October, November, and December. Walk-ins are the only preferred method.
  • Distribution: Packages are available for purchase on certain dates at different locations in October, November, and December
  • Fees: $35 per Holiday food pack
  • Method of Payment: Cash, credit, debit, or EBT card
  • Description: Provides a Holiday food pack which typically contains a ham, other protein items, veggie sides, and dessert for purchase

Hennepin County

Living in Faith and Truth Nonprofit Organization – Toys for Tots

  • Email: lift.organization.org@gmail.com
  • Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Living-In-Faith-And-Truth-Organization-100064590223886/
  • Serves: Residents of Hennepin County
  • Eligibility: Parent(s)/guardian(s) with children ages birth – 15
  • Registration: Now – 5 pm Wednesday, December 4th
  • Intake: Email to register; include parent/guardian name(s), address, children’s age, and children’s gender
  • Distribution: 3 pm – 6 pm Saturday, December 14th; location information will be emailed once registration is received.
  • Description: Toys for Tots holiday gift program and holiday party. Holiday gifts and other items will be distributed at the party.

North Side Blessings – Toys for Tots

  • Serves: Residents of Minneapolis
  • Email: northsideblessings17@gmail.com
  • Eligibility: Families with children under ages 14 and younger; one registration per family
  • Registration: Register online
  • Distribution: Details for location and times will be sent to families accepted via email
  • Documentation: Must provide a medical card or benefits letter from county with parent/guardian and childs(rens) information. Must be legal parent or have legal guardianship of child(ren).
  • Description: Free toy program

The Organization of Liberian Women In Minnesota (OLWMN) – Toys for Tots

  • Address: 11468 Marketplace Dr N, Suite #600-1037, Champlin, MN 55316
  • Phone: (612)306-0334
  • Email: olwmn2022@gmail.com
  • Intake: Email to request an application form
  • Serves: Residents of Hennepin County
  • Eligibility: Children ages birth – 15 years
  • Registration: Open Thursday, November 14, until full
  • Documents Required: Driver’s License; Intake form requesting full names, ages, gender, date of birth for all kids; parent information required including full name, email address, phone number, and current home address
  • Distribution: The agency will reach out with pick-up details
  • Description: Offers free toys for families in need for Christmas

MOTHERS – Toys for Tots Program

  • Email: MOTHERSMINNESOTA@gmail.com
  • Phone: (651)399-0419
  • Serves: Open to all
  • Registration: November 14 – December 15. Date may be extended if necessary to December 20.
  • Intake: Register by email or call to leave a voice message. Provide the parent first and last name, address, phone number, county the family lives in, age and gender of the child, and what the child will like.
  • Distribution: Families will receive a follow-up update with a pick-up time and location
  • Description: Provides a holiday toys for tot program

Anoka County

Anonymous Santa – Christmas with Dignity

  • Address: Main Street United Methodist Church 6500 Main Street North Branch, MN 55056
  • Phone: (651)983-0496
  • Serves: Residents of Chisago County and Forest Lake School District (Columbus, East Bethel, Forest Lake, Ham Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Linwood Township, Marine, May Township, Scandia, Stacy – in Chisago County only, and Wyoming)
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years. The child must be in high school if 18 years old.
  • Registration: Applications are due Friday, December 6, 2024
  • Intake: Visit website to apply online. All information must be completed with a current phone number for a call back. All information must be completed for the application to be processed. If all information is not provided, the application may be delayed. A volunteer will attempt to follow up by phone call once all application documents have been submitted. A confirmation letter will be mailed to families during the first week of December.
  • Documents: Proof of residency at the time of distribution
  • Distribution: Pick up dates will be held December 18-20. Dates and times for pick of the toys will be provided to families. Parents and legal guardians must pick up toys on the date designated for them.
  • Description: Offers parents and legal guardians who are unable to buy presents for their children an opportunity to shop in a holiday store

Association of Nigerian Nurses in Minnesota – Toys for Tots Program

  • Email: felisilver@yahoo.com
  • Phone: (612)267-0424
  • Serves: Residents of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 14 years
  • Intake: Email to register for toys. Must include parent names (first, last), phone number, address, children’s names (first, middle, last), age, and gender.
  • Registration: Deadline is Saturday, November 30
  • Distribution: Information will be emailed to parents in mid-December for appointment time and date
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Christmas Committee and Toys for Joy – Christmas Registration

  • Address: Anoka Armory 408 East Main Street, Anoka, MN 55303
  • Phone: (763)323-4982
  • Serves: Residents of Andover, Anoka, Coon Rapids, Bethel, Blaine, Burns, Cedar, Circle Pines, East Bethel, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Nowthen, Oak Grove, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Stacy, and Wyoming of northern Anoka County
  • Eligibility: Families who are not receiving Christmas help from another organization. Parents must have legal custody of their children.
  • Intake: Visit website for online application. Only online applications are accepted. Fill out the application carefully, including a wish list for each child. Gift requests are up to $35 value per child. Do not request video games or gift cards. When an application is approved, the applicant will receive an appointment listing time and date of their appointment.
  • Registration: Tuesday, October 1 – Sunday, November 24
  • Documents: ID with signature and proof of custody of children
  • Distribution: A postcard will be sent to families with a notification of an appointment time between 8 am – 4:30 pm December 19 or 20. Families must arrive at their appointment time. Homebound families will be evaluated to determine if they can receive their toys via home delivery to their home.
  • Description: Provides parents and legal guardians a toy and food program for pick up in a warehouse parking lot. Gift options are pre-bagged and may include new, non-nonviolent gifts, including mittens, hats, children’s books, board games, sports ball, and stocking stuffers.

Mission for Evangelism and Holistic Development (MEHD) – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 10506 Coon Rapids Boulevard NW Coon Rapids, MN 55433
  • Phone: (763)200-4062
  • Email: aclinton807@gmail.com
  • Serves: Residents of Anoka County
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Visit website to register. All information must be entered correctly to be considered for approval. Families will be contacted by email once approved.
  • Registration: Tuesday, November 5 – Monday, December 9
  • Distribution: Families will receive an email with distribution date and time
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Southern Anoka Community Assistance (SACA) – Holiday Gift Distribution

  • Address: SACA’s Future Home 3905 California Street, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
  • Phone: (763)789-2444
  • Email: info@sacafoodshelf.org
  • Serves: Residents of Columbia Heights, Fridley, Hilltop, Northeast Minneapolis, and Spring Lake Park
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 17 years. Parents must have legal custody of their children.
  • Intake: Visit website to register online
  • Registration: Online registration timeline is between Monday, October 14 – Wednesday, November 6
  • Documents: Families who are not current clients of SACA must bring proof of custody their children such as a Social Security card, passport, health insurance card, and/or court documents. All families must bring a picture ID and a piece of official mail listing the correct updated address.
  • Distribution: Appointments will be provided to parents/guardians once registered. Parent/guardians are expected to be on time and not arrive more than 5 minutes early or late to their last appointment time. Upon arrival of the appointment time, a volunteer will check the parent/guardian in to get their toys.
  • Description: Holiday toy program for clients and non-clients of SACA

Carver County

Shakopee Community Assistance – Christmas Dinner

  • Address: Saint John’s Lutheran Church 119 8th Avenue West Shakopee, MN 55379
  • Serves: Open to all
  • Intake: Dine-in or takeout of a Christmas dinner
  • Distribution: 5 pm – 6:30 pm Tuesday, December 17
  • Description: Free community Christmas dinner for dine-in or takeout

Association of Nigerian Nurses in Minnesota – Toys for Tots Program

  • Email: felisilver@yahoo.com
  • Phone: (612)267-0424
  • Serves: Residents of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 14 years
  • Intake: Email to register for toys. Must include parent names (first, last), phone number, address, children’s names (first, middle, last), age, and gender.
  • Registration: Deadline is Saturday, November 30
  • Distribution: Information will be emailed to parents in mid-December for appointment time and date
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Chaska Santa – Holiday Program

  • Email: chaskasanta@gmail.com
  • Serves: Residents of Carver County
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Visit website to register online. To register, families will need to Sign In, Create an Account, or Continue as Guest to submit their information online. Registration needs to have children’s name (first, middle, last), date of birth, parent(s) name (first, middle, last), email, phone number, city, state, and zip code.
  • Registration: November 7 – December 8
  • Documents: Photo ID for the parent, a utility bill with current bill address listed, and a form of identification for each child. Forms of identification for the child must bear the child’s name and can be a health insurance card, birth certificate, Social Security card, or anything else that proves there is an actual living child. No pictures of children.
  • Distribution: December 19 – 20. Parents will be asked to pick a time slot via Signup Genius by email. Do not bring children to the distribution. Do not arrive before distribution time.
  • Description: Holiday toy program

Community Action Partnership of Carver, Dakota, and Scott Counties – Hope for the Holidays Toy Program

  • Hope for the Holidays Hotline: (952)402-9871
  • Email: Maritiza Real at mreal@capagency.org
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, and Scott counties who are current clients of CAP Agency’s programs
    • Scott County Eligibility: Must participate and utilize CAP’s Food Shelf or utilize the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for families ages birth – 18 years
    • Carver and Dakota County Eligibility: Must participate and utilize the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Call CAP Agency case worker to apply for the toy program. Visit website to fill out a form to sign up for the toy program.
  • Registration: Starts Tuesday, October 24 and until full
  • Documents: Proof of participating in CAP’s Food Shelf or Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Distribution: Toy distribution dates and times will be emailed to families once they have registered
  • Description: Holiday toy program for current clients of CAP Agency

Mi CASA – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 1053 Jefferson Street South Shakopee, MN 55379
  • Email: info@micasamn.org for more information
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, or Scott County
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages 18 years and under
  • Intake: Walk in to register in person. Online registrations are not accepted.
  • Documents: Bring identification for the applicant, ID for each child being registered (i.e. birth certificate, health insurance card, or school ID), and proof of address
  • Distribution: 3 pm – 7 pm Monday, November 25, 2024
  • Description: Provides a holiday toys for tots program

Women of Waconia – Gift Choosing Day

  • Address: Freshwater Community Church 138 West 1st Street Waconia, MN 55387
  • Email: women_of_waconia@yahoo.com
  • Serves: Residents of Waconia School District 110 that need a little additional help for the holidays
  • Eligibility: Parents and legal guardians of children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: No reservation is required. Walk into the Freshwater Community Church on the day of the distribution.
  • Documents: Photo ID, recent utility bill to show proof of residency, letter from school, or voter registration card. Legal guardians must bring legal documentation stating they have legal custody.
  • Distribution: 9 am – 6:30 pm Friday, December 6, 2024
  • Description: Provides a holiday gift program where each family gets a board game and children may get two to three gifts, one book, and stocking stuffers

Yaya’s Heart – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 1020 East 146th Street Burnsville, MN 55337
  • Text Phone: (470)939-8771
  • Email: info@yayasheart.org
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, and Scott County; cities of Bloomington and Richfield
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Visit website to register online. Families can text or email Yaya’s Heart with questions or concerns.
  • Registration: November 18 – November 22
  • Documents: Photo ID for adults, any form of identification for the children such as birth certificate, insurance card, Social Security card, or other. Photocopies are accepted. Must bring the documents when picking up the toys.
  • Distribution: Dates will be emailed the first week of December to families for a time slot to pick up toys. Otherwise, families can check the website for distribution dates.
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Chisago County

Anonymous Santa – Christmas with Dignity

  • Address: Main Street United Methodist Church 6500 Main Street North Branch, MN 55056
  • Phone: (651)983-0496
  • Serves: Residents of Chisago County and Forest Lake School District (Columbus, East Bethel, Forest Lake, Ham Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Linwood Township, Marine, May Township, Scandia, Stacy – in Chisago County only, and Wyoming)
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years. The child must be in high school if 18 years old.
  • Registration: Applications are due Friday, December 6, 2024
  • Intake: Visit website to apply online. All information must be completed with a current phone number for a call back. All information must be completed for the application to be processed. If all information is not provided, the application may be delayed. A volunteer will attempt to follow up by phone call once all application documents have been submitted. A confirmation letter will be mailed to families during the first week of December.
  • Documents: Proof of residency at the time of distribution
  • Distribution: Pick up dates will be held December 18-20. Dates and times for pick of the toys will be provided to families. Parents and legal guardians must pick up toys on the date designated for them.
  • Description: Offers parents and legal guardians who are unable to buy presents for their children an opportunity to shop in a holiday store

Dakota County

Hastings Family Service – Project Share – Adopt-A-Family to Receive Gifts and Holiday Food​

  • Address: 301 2nd Street East Hastings, MN 55033
  • Phone: (651)437-7134
  • Serves: Residents of Hastings Public Schools Independent School District 200 (including the cities of Hampton, Hastings, Miesville, New Trier, and Vermillion; portions of Denmark, Douglas, Hampton, Marshan, Nininger, Ravenna, and Vermillion Townships)
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Registration: Begins Monday, October 7, 2024 and until full. Appointments will be made over the phone between October 22 – December 6 for 30 minutes.
  • Intake: Call to start the registration process
  • Documents: Will be provided once registered
  • Distribution: Gifts and groceries will be distributed. Details for dates to receive gifts and food will be provided once an applicant registers and has completed a confirmation phone call.
  • Description: Provides gifts and a holiday meal for households who register

Holiday Gifts/Toys

Programs that provide gifts such as clothing, toys, and other items to help low-income individuals and families, older adults, and others who celebrate the holiday.

Association of Nigerian Nurses in Minnesota – Toys for Tots Program

  • Email: felisilver@yahoo.com
  • Phone: (612)267-0424
  • Serves: Residents of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 14 years
  • Intake: Email to register for toys. Must include parent names (first, last), phone number, address, children’s names (first, middle, last), age, and gender.
  • Registration: Deadline is Saturday, November 30
  • Distribution: Information will be emailed to parents in mid-December for appointment time and date
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Community Action Partnership of Carver, Dakota, and Scott Counties – Hope for the Holidays Toy Program

  • Hope for the Holidays Hotline: (952)402-9871
  • Email: Maritiza Real at mreal@capagency.org
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, and Scott counties who are current clients of CAP Agency’s programs
    • Scott County Eligibility: Must participate and utilize CAP’s Food Shelf or utilize the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for families ages birth – 18 years
    • Carver and Dakota County Eligibility: Must participate and utilize the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Call CAP Agency case worker to apply for the toy program. Visit website to fill out a form to sign up for the toy program.
  • Registration: Starts Tuesday, October 24 and until full
  • Documents: Proof of participating in CAP’s Food Shelf or Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Distribution: Toy distribution dates and times will be emailed to families once they have registered
  • Description: Holiday toy program for current clients of CAP Agency

Mi CASA – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 1053 Jefferson Street South Shakopee, MN 55379
  • Email: info@micasamn.org for more information
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, or Scott County
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages 18 years and under
  • Intake: Walk in to register in person. Online registrations are not accepted.
  • Documents: Bring identification for the applicant, ID for each child being registered (i.e. birth certificate, health insurance card, or school ID), and proof of address
  • Distribution: 3 pm – 7 pm Monday, November 25, 2024
  • Description: Provides a holiday toys for tots program

Secret Holiday Shop – City of Farmington Holiday Program

  • Address: Farmington High School 20655 Flagstaff Avenue, MN 55024
  • Phone: (651)280-6869
  • Email: Toys4Town@FarmingtonMN.gov
  • Serves: Residents of Farmington
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Registration: Saturday, November 2 – Tuesday, December 10
  • Intake: Call or email to register for the program
  • Fees: Gifts range from $2-$10 for all ages. Tickets can be purchased at $1 per ticket.
  • Distribution: 9 am – 12 noon Saturday, December 16, 2024. Parents are not allowed to shop and must send their child a shopping list and how much to spend on each person. Children will shop, wrap presents, and label their own gifts with the assistance from volunteers.
  • Description: Provides a toy shop for children to shop gifts for their family at a low cost and gifts are wrapped once chosen

Yaya’s Heart – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 1020 East 146th Street Burnsville, MN 55337
  • Text Phone: (470)939-8771
  • Email: info@yayasheart.org
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, and Scott County; cities of Bloomington and Richfield
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Visit website to register online. Families can text or email Yaya’s Heart with questions or concerns.
  • Registration: November 18 – November 22
  • Documents: Photo ID for adults, any form of identification for the children such as birth certificate, insurance card, Social Security card, or other. Photocopies are accepted. Must bring the documents when picking up the toys.
  • Distribution: Dates will be emailed the first week of December to families for a time slot to pick up toys. Otherwise, families can check the website for distribution dates.
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Scott County

Belle Plaine Area Food Shelf – Christmas Food Box

  • Address: 128 North Meridian Street Belle Plaine, MN 56011
  • Phone: (612)751-9923
  • Serves: Residents of Belle Plaine
  • Eligibility: Families with 3 or more dependent children in the household and are clients of the food shelf
  • Intake: Walk into Belle Plaine Area Food Shelf between 5 pm – 7 pm Wednesday or 9 am – 11 am Saturday
  • Registration: Starts Friday, November 8 – Wednesday, December 18
  • Distribution: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm and 5 pm – 6 pm Monday, December 23, 2024
  • Description: Provide a Christmas food box which includes a ham and other food items to prepare a Christmas meal

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community – Special Holiday Assistance Program

  • Phone: (952)324-0518
  • Serves: Indigenous families residing in Scott County
  • Intake: Call to register between 9 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday
  • Registration: Deadline for registration is Friday, December 6
  • Documents: Intake paperwork, verification of address (utility bill or phone bill), income verification, tribal enrollment verification, and birth certificate for the child
  • Distribution: Families will be provided with information once approved
  • Description: Provides a holiday stocking stuffer per child and holiday food program to households in need

Holiday Gifts/Toys

Programs that provide gifts such as clothing, toys, and other items to help low-income individuals and families, older adults, and others who celebrate the holiday.

Association of Nigerian Nurses in Minnesota – Toys for Tots Program

  • Email: felisilver@yahoo.com
  • Phone: (612)267-0424
  • Serves: Residents of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 14 years
  • Intake: Email to register for toys. Must include parent names (first, last), phone number, address, children’s names (first, middle, last), age, and gender.
  • Registration: Deadline is Saturday, November 30
  • Distribution: Information will be emailed to parents in mid-December for appointment time and date
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Community Action Partnership of Carver, Dakota, and Scott Counties – Hope for the Holidays Toy Program

  • Hope for the Holidays Hotline: (952)402-9871
  • Email: Maritiza Real at mreal@capagency.org
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, and Scott counties who are current clients of CAP Agency’s programs
    • Scott County Eligibility: Must participate and utilize CAP’s Food Shelf or utilize the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for families ages birth – 18 years
    • Carver and Dakota County Eligibility: Must participate and utilize the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Call CAP Agency case worker to apply for the toy program. Visit website to fill out a form to sign up for the toy program.
  • Registration: Starts Tuesday, October 24 and until full
  • Documents: Proof of participating in CAP’s Food Shelf or Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Distribution: Toy distribution dates and times will be emailed to families once they have registered
  • Description: Holiday toy program for current clients of CAP Agency

Mi CASA – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 1053 Jefferson Street South Shakopee, MN 55379
  • Email: info@micasamn.org for more information
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, or Scott County
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages 18 years and under
  • Intake: Walk in to register in person. Online registrations are not accepted.
  • Documents: Bring identification for the applicant, ID for each child being registered (i.e. birth certificate, health insurance card, or school ID), and proof of address
  • Distribution: 3 pm – 7 pm Monday, November 25, 2024
  • Description: Provides a holiday toys for tots program

Secret Holiday Shop – City of Savage Holiday Program

  • Address: Savage Sports Center 13450 Dakota Avenue, MN 55378
  • Serves: Residents of Savage
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Walk in for the event to register. Parents can purchase tickets and create a shopping list with their children upon arrival. Children will be assisted by volunteers to shop for the toys while parents wait in the waiting room.
  • Fees: Gifts range from $1-$15. Tickets are $1 per ticket. Cash and checks are accepted only.
  • Distribution: 9 am – 11 am Saturday, December 7, 2024
  • Description: Provides a holiday shopping event for families to purchase gifts at an affordable price. Gifts will be wrapped and labeled at the end of the shopping experience.

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community – Special Holiday Assistance Program

  • Phone: (952)324-0518
  • Serves: Indigenous families residing in Scott County
  • Intake: Call to register between 9 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday
  • Registration: Deadline for registration is Friday, December 6
  • Documents: Intake paperwork, verification of address (utility bill or phone bill), income verification, tribal enrollment verification, and birth certificate for the child
  • Distribution: Families will be provided with information once approved
  • Description: Provides a holiday stocking stuffer per child and holiday food program to households in need

Toy Corner, The – Holiday Toy Shop Appointments

  • Address: Saint John’s Lutheran Church Basement Level 119 8th Avenue West Shakopee, MN 55379
  • Phone: (952)737-9854
  • Serves: Residents of Scott County
  • Eligibility: Families with children birth – 16 years who are experiencing financial hardship
  • Intake: Walk in to sign up for a holiday shopping appointment. Walk in between 3 pm – 5:30 pm Monday and Tuesday.
  • Documents: Utility bill listing address
  • Distribution: Appointments will be set-up in person
  • Description: Provides an opportunity for families to shop for free new and like-new items such as toys, books, stuffed animals, games, and puzzles

Yaya’s Heart – Toys for Tots Program

  • Address: 1020 East 146th Street Burnsville, MN 55337
  • Text Phone: (470)939-8771
  • Email: info@yayasheart.org
  • Serves: Residents of Carver, Dakota, and Scott County; cities of Bloomington and Richfield
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years
  • Intake: Visit website to register online. Families can text or email Yaya’s Heart with questions or concerns.
  • Registration: November 18 – November 22
  • Documents: Photo ID for adults, any form of identification for the children such as birth certificate, insurance card, Social Security card, or other. Photocopies are accepted. Must bring the documents when picking up the toys.
  • Distribution: Dates will be emailed the first week of December to families for a time slot to pick up toys. Otherwise, families can check the website for distribution dates.
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Stearns County

Christmas Meals

Overcomers International Fellowship, Inc. Dream Center

  • Address: 529 16th Avenue North, Saint Cloud, MN 56303
  • Phone: (320)656-1550
  • Serves: Open to all
  • Intake: Walk in
  • Distribution: 12 noon on Wednesday, December 25th
  • Description: Providing a Christmas meal and entertainment

Place of Hope

  • Address: 511 9th Avenue North, St. Cloud MN 56303
  • Phone: (320)203-7881
  • Serves: Open to all in need of a meal
  • Intake: Walk in
  • Distribution: 12:15 pm for lunch and 5:30 pm for dinner on Tuesday, December 24th and Wednesday, December 25th
  • Description: Providing lunch and dinner Christmas meals

Washington County

Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf – Christmas Food

  • Address: 15106 Francesca Avenue North Hugo, MN 55038
  • Phone: (651)528-6224
  • Email: coordinator@hugofoodshelf.org
  • Serves: Residents of zip code 55038
  • Intake: Call or visit website to schedule an appointment by the registration deadline
  • Registration: Opens November 1 – November 29
  • Distribution: Details will be provided once registered. The process will be held in person.
  • Description: Provides holiday food items to prepare for a meal

Holiday Adoption Programs

Programs that provide ‘Adopt-A-Family’ services which match people who want to provide personalized holiday assistance (usually gifts or a food basket) with older adults, individuals with a disability, or low-income family who are unable to celebrate, and enjoy the holiday without the sponsor’s generosity.

Community Thread – Holiday Hope – Adoption Program for Families, Older Adults, and Adults with Disabilities to Receive Gifts

  • Address: 2300 Orleans Street West Stillwater, MN 55082
  • Phone: (651)439-7434 between 9 am – 4 pm Monday – Friday
  • Email: Kate@CommunityThreadMN.org or HolidayHope@CommunityThreadMN.org
  • Serves: Residents who live in the following zip codes of 55001, 55003, 55042, 55043, 55047, 55082, 55125, 55128, or 55129
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 12 years and living with at least 50% of the time with the parent or guardian completing the registration. Older adults ages 62 and older and individuals living with a disability who are experiencing a financial hardship.
  • Registration: Visit website to complete registration form. Call or email for questions regarding registration, volunteer opportunities, or sponsoring for the holiday program.
  • Documents: Driver’s license, state ID, passport, for adult each member of the household, including children under 12 years old. Accepted forms of ID for children include birth certificate, school ID, or current health insurance card. Provide a piece of mail with proof of current address such as utility bill, paycheck stub, or bank account statement listing current address and name of the person registering. Must be dated within the last 60 days.
  • Distribution: Visit website for gift card pick up dates for those who register
  • Description: Connects people in need to those willing to provide support during the holidays. Low-income families, older adults, and adults living with a disability are matched with sponsors who provide gifts, gift cards to purchase gifts, and grocery gift cards based on the household size.

Holiday Gifts/Toys

Programs that provide gifts such as clothing, toys, and other items to help low-income individuals and families, older adults, and others celebrate the holiday.

Anonymous Santa – Christmas with Dignity

  • Address: Main Street United Methodist Church 6500 Main Street North Branch, MN 55056
  • Phone: (651)983-0496
  • Serves: Residents of Chisago County and Forest Lake School District (Columbus, East Bethel, Forest Lake, Ham Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Linwood Township, Marine, May Township, Scandia, Stacy – in Chisago County only, and Wyoming)
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 18 years. The child must be in high school if 18 years old.
  • Registration: Applications are due Friday, December 6, 2024
  • Intake: Visit website to apply online. All information must be completed with a current phone number for a call back. All information must be completed for the application to be processed. If all information is not provided, the application may be delayed. A volunteer will attempt to follow up by phone call once all application documents have been submitted. A confirmation letter will be mailed to families during the first week of December.
  • Documents: Proof of residency at the time of distribution
  • Distribution: Pick up dates will be held December 18-20. Dates and times for pick of the toys will be provided to families. Parents and legal guardians must pick up toys on the date designated for them.
  • Description: Offers parents and legal guardians who are unable to buy presents for their children an opportunity to shop in a holiday store

Association of Nigerian Nurses in Minnesota – Toys for Tots Program

  • Email: felisilver@yahoo.com
  • Phone: (612)267-0424
  • Serves: Residents of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties
  • Eligibility: Families with children ages birth – 14 years
  • Intake: Email to register for toys. Must include parent names (first, last), phone number, address, children’s names (first, middle, last), age, and gender.
  • Registration: Deadline is Saturday, November 30
  • Distribution: Information will be emailed to parents in mid-December for appointment time and date
  • Description: Holiday Toys for Tots program

Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf – Holiday Toy Program

  • Address: 15106 Francesca Avenue North Hugo, MN 55038
  • Phone: (651)528-6224
  • Email: coordinator@hugofoodshelf.org
  • Serves: Residents of zip code 55038
  • Intake: Call or visit website to schedule an appointment by the registration deadline
  • Registration: Register between November 1 – November 11
  • Distribution: Details will be provided once registered. The process will be held in person.
  • Description: Provides a holiday toy program for clients

How to Help/Give Back

The holiday season is also an opportunity to share the spirit of giving and make a positive impact on your community. Whether you have time, resources, or a willingness to lend a hand, there are countless ways you can help those in need. From donating gifts and clothing to volunteering at local holiday events or sponsoring a family through an adoption program, your generosity can bring joy to others and strengthen community ties. This section will provide you with information on how to contribute and give back, making the holidays special for everyone.

Keep A Child Warm this Winter with Hat and Mittens.

 While the kids start to try on all of their winter gear, take a minute to sort through the gently used hats and waterproof gloves that no longer fit. If you are done handing them down to younger children or are out purchasing some new items, think about donating them to Hats and Mittens. This organization collects new and gently used hats, waterproof gloves and mittens to children; sizes infant through 18.

Date/Time: Now through December 18th. Please contact for hours of operation.

Location: Dentistry for Children and Adolescents / 7373 France Ave S. #402 / Phone: 952-831-4400

Location: 14050 Nicollet Ave S. #100 / Phone 952-435-4102

Location: 6385 Old Shady Oak Road #150 / Phone: 952-932-0920

Contact: info@hatsandmittens.org or 952-221-3400

Making Fleece Blankets for Kids with My Very Own Bed

My Very Own Bed’s mission is to provide new beds and linens to children of families that have recently secured stable housing. Each bed comes with bedding including a warm twin-sized blanket, which is often a fleece-tie blanket made by volunteers. This project can be completed from the comfort of your own home and is a great option for larger groups that would like to volunteer! You can find all the instructions here.

Date/Time: They ask all volunteers to schedule a drop-off time in advance. Please email mosope@myveryownbed.org to schedule. Drop-off times are generally available Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Location: Donations accepted at the office at 34 13th Ave NE, Suite 106, Minneapolis. 

Contact: For more information contact info@myveryownbed.org.

Help our Food Insecure Neighbors with Food Shelf Support

Millions of children and families living in America face hunger and food insecurity every day.

Thanksgiving means a time to give thanks and many families incorporate helping with holiday meals for their neighbors in need and those living with food insecurity. Demand at food pantries has continued to grow due to the pressures of inflation, supply chain issues, and decreased federal support. Your family can help our food-insecure neighbors with your time, food donations, or financial donations. Here are a few ways you and your family can help:

  • Reach out to the local food shelf in your community to see what support/donations they need this year.
  • Start a collection drive of specific items (canned goods, etc.) and deliver them to your food bank prior to the holidays.
  • Make a donation to your local food bank or food shelves

Date/Time: Ongoing.

Location: Click here to find the food shelf closest to you.

More Info: Volunteer info can be found here and here

Adopt-A-Family for the Holidays with Avivo

Avivo’s Adopt-A-Family Holiday Gift Giving Program matches families who are currently participating in an Avivo program with community sponsors who anonymously provide gifts for the holidays. Join our Adopt-A-Family holiday gift program, with the goal of helping 500 families have a happy holiday season. From November 1–December 10, sponsors/donors can give in a few ways: donate gift cards, donate general gifts, or make a financial donation through the Avivo website. 

Date/Time: Giving opportunities are open now.

Location: Sponsors/donors can deliver donations to an Avivo location in early December. Donation drop-off locations will generally be based on where you live or by which Avivo location the family you sponsored is being served. Online giving is also available.

Contact: Click here for more information and FAQs about the Adopt-A-Family program. Or contact Brittany Biggers, brittany.biggers@avivomn.org

Holiday Hope Sponsor a Family 2024 with Community Thread

Find another opportunity to help support local families this holiday season with Community Thread. Since 1970, Community Thread’s Holiday Hope Program has offered hope to individuals and families throughout the Stillwater Area School District and surrounding areas. With the help of volunteers and sponsors, Holiday Hope provides holiday meals and gifts to families and individuals in need during the holiday season. In 2023, this program over 3,000 individuals right here in our local communities, and we anticipate serving even more people in 2024. Find out more about the Holiday Hope Wishlist and how to sponsor a family.

Date/Time: Drop off donations Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Recipient registration is now open and ends on November 24th. and the matching process begins on November 1. Sponsors can purchase gift cards and/or gifts requested by the recipient and deliver them to Community Thread by December 2.

Location: Drop off at Community Thread, 2300 Orleans Street West, Stillwater.

Contact: HolidayHope@CommunityThreadMN.org or 651.439.7434.

Holiday Volunteer Opportunities with The Link

There are many ways to volunteer during the holidays.

Location: Grace Lutheran Church, 7800 150th St W, Apple Valley.

Contact: Yongyee Lo, Development & Volunteer Coordinator, volunteer@thelinkmn.org. 

Make Room for the Hungry Giving Project

Financial donations are often one of the best ways to support the efforts of our local organizations providing resources to our communities. Yet, making those financial commitments can be challenging for children to see. DGT has a great idea for making the conversation around abundance a family activity. 

They have a project called Make Room For Hungry. This project, which makes kids mindful of hunger, requires only a few moments each day. It lasts a month and can begin any day you choose. The calendar lists something to count around your home, such as how many pairs of shoes or how many spoons, and then invites you to place that number of coins into a dish. Not only does it make the collection of money visible to a child, but it also encourages conversation around abundance. You can find a link to the calendar to start this practice whenever it works for your family. While the focus is on hunger, the donation activity could be used for various ways your family prefers to give back. 

Solid Ground

How you can help

Fulfill a Wish List
Purchase gifts for a family by using their personalized Wish List. Bring the gifts (wrapped or unwrapped) to Solid Ground by December 13th for distribution.

Host a Gift Drive
Help organize gift drives at schools, neighborhoods, businesses, and faith communities. Contact Dylan at 651-846-9024 to learn more!

Volunteer
Help receive holiday gift packages from donors at East Metro Place. Assist with unloading donors’ vehicles, transporting gifts inside the building, and organizing gift packages. Times needed are December 9th, 11th, and 13th, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

Help distribute gifts from East Metro Place, as well as arrange for delivery to families in our scattered site programs. Times needed are December 17th, 4:00 – 6:30 pm.

Donate
Unable to shop for an entire family? No worries! Solid Ground also welcomes financial contributions as well as unwrapped gifts, and uses the items and funds that are collected to assemble gift packages for families that were unable to be matched with a donor.

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