From toys to basic needs, Heartland United Way programs are helping make the holidays more cheerful for families needing assistance in Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick Counties.
Holiday Toy Distribution
Thanks to the generosity of our four-county area, 817 families were able to pick out gifts for 2,059 children on December 12, 2024. Heartland United Way partner agencies and Grand Island Public School social workers also received toys and other items, bringing the number of children impacted by the Holiday Toy Drive and Distribution to 2,479. That’s compared to 2,019 children served in 2023. Holiday Toy Drive and Distribution is hosted by the Heartland United Way with toys donated from community members, Local 4’s Present Patrol, Toys for Tots, and the United States Marine Corps. Reserve. It provides holiday assistance for children aged 12 and under whose parents are not financially able to provide gifts for them during the holidays.
Holiday Adopt-a-Family Program
Dozens of businesses, community members and organizations have the chance to play Santa this year, adopting a family through the Heartland United Way. Families accepted into this program through referrals experienced extraordinary needs due to job loss, health issues, a house fire or other major circumstances. Adopters donate gifts to an assigned family anonymously based on a description of the family’s biggest needs. In 2024, Heartland United Way is connecting 34 local families with adopters. They will also receive a food box and gift card from the generous team members at Hornady Manufacturing.
Christmas Cheer
This year the Heartland United Way took the reins on a program that has been providing a helping hand to local families since 1910. Christmas Cheer provides a grocery store voucher for a holiday meal to those in need in Hall County. Thanks to community donations the Heartland United Way will be able to ensure 1,068 families will have a holiday meal, but there is more need. Donations can be made at Heartland United Way or these Home Federal Bank locations in Grand Island:
• 221 S. Locust Street
• 3311 W. Stolley Park Road
• 3419 State Street