Holiday Adopt a Family

Create Magic: Sponsor a Family!

The United Way Adopt a Family Program offers businesses, community members, groups and organizations the opportunity to connect with and support local families during the holiday season by providing gifts and essentials like food and toiletries. These families, identified by trusted service agencies, are navigating challenges such as financial hardship, health concerns, or significant life changes. They remain strong, resourceful, and represent the heart of our community.

Sponsors will choose a family to support through our online platform, where you can view details such as clothing sizes and specific items the family has requested.

Families Looking for Support

To participate in our Adopt-a-Family program, you must be referred by a Johnson or Washington County organization. If you are looking for support this holiday season, please visit our list of partnering agencies and reach out to any that have an established relationship with you. Ask if they are participating in the United Way Adopt-a-Family program this season. 

To get more information on how to adopt, or how to get support, contact Raine Messamaker at Raine.messamaker@unitedwayjwc.org , or call (319) 338-7823.

2025 Lookback: Thank you!

 In 2025, 193 families of various sizes and life stages turned to this program for help. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, all 825 individuals received the support they needed to brighten their holidays. From families of 8 to aspiring artists, our community came together to help everyone, regardless of financial status, celebrate the holidays the way they want. This is the way we create magic during the holidays, and this is how we celebrate the life of our community!