For 26 years, Catholic Charities Adopt-A-Family program has brought the spirit of Christmas to families in need, connecting generous donors with individuals and families to provide gifts and holiday cheer. This year’s program was no exception, with nearly 700 families adopted and supported during the holiday season.
The program allows donors to select a family size online or make monetary donations, which go toward gifts for nominated families and individuals. To qualify for the program, recipients must be nominated by one of Catholic Charities ministries, ensuring that support reaches those most in need.
The 2024 Adopt-A-Family events took place from December 17–19. On the 17th, donors dropped off their gifts and donations. On the 18th, Catholic Charities ministries collected the gifts to distribute to the families. Finally, on December 19th, the recipients picked up their gifts, many of them overwhelmed with gratitude.
Stories of Generosity
For donors like Trixie Callahan, participating in the Adopt-A-Family program is more than just giving presents, it’s about faith and connection. “I’m Catholic, and it makes me feel closer to God,” she shared. Trixie has been part of the program for three years and said, “I’ve donated to other charities in the past, but I truly want to help out Catholic churches.”
Similarly, Joni Milliron and her family look forward to the experience every year. “We just have so much fun putting everything together,” she said. “It fills us with joy—true joy in our hearts.” For Joni, who adopted a family of six this year, the program is a chance to give back while staying connected to Catholic Charities mission. This is also Joni’s third year taking part in the program.
Jason Dorris, another donor, shared his perspective while dropping off gifts. “It’s not just about the presents, it’s about sharing love and joy.” He participates in the program with his daughter and her family, adding, “This helps give back to the community and helps make other families have a wonderful Christmas as well. It’s not just about the gifts. It’s more about sharing the love and the joy – and the way to make everything better is to share your love.”
Stories of Gratitude
The gratitude of the recipients was heartfelt and moving. Annabella Brockelman, who was nominated by Catholic Charities Marisol Family, expressed her excitement and thanks. “This is very sweet, and I’m excited to see what the kids got. Thank you to all of you!”
Another recipient, Raquel Rodriguez, also nominated by Marisol Family, shared her appreciation. “They have helped us a lot with diapers and now with Christmas gifts. This is very good. Thank you so much.”
Erica Echeverria, an EHS Home Base Visitor with Catholic Charities Early Childhood Education, reflected on the impact of delivering gifts to a family of four. “This family didn’t know anything about us before, and they were so grateful and happy. The kindness and love shown by the donors are truly amazing.”
Ministries Making a Difference
Catholic Charities ministries work tirelessly to nominate families and distribute gifts. Mark Stone, a Residence Service Coordinator with Catholic Charities Housing, shared the joy of one resident who requested gifts for his pets and another who asked only for cookware to make meals for her neighbors who can’t cook for themselves. “To these residents, being adopted means so much—they wouldn’t have this opportunity otherwise,” he said “They can’t afford it themselves out of their own pockets so they really look forward to this”.
Similarly, Valeria Lozoya Leanos, a Naturalization Specialist with Catholic Charities Immigration, was thrilled to see 10 of their nominated families adopted. One case was especially moving: a father mourning the loss of his 10-year-old daughter this year. “It was very special for his family to be adopted,” Valeria shared.
A Program Full of Love and Hope
The Catholic Charities Adopt-A-Family program is more than just a gift exchange—it’s a celebration of love, generosity and community. Donors, ministries and recipients alike are uplifted through their shared participation, creating a ripple effect of joy and gratitude.
As Mark Stone put it, “Every year, this program gets better and better. Everyone involved feels so grateful, and the recipients are truly blessed. It’s a beautiful way to share love and make the holidays special for everyone.”
With nearly 700 families supported this year, Catholic Charities continues to make the holiday season brighter for those in need, one family at a time. This meaningful impact was made possible through the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our employees and the efforts of our amazing volunteers.