'It's like a breath of fresh air': Greater Green Bay Salvation Army spreads Christmas cheer with AdoptaFamily program
Dec 11, 2024
GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) — The Greater Green Bay Salvation Army held its holiday distribution for Adopt-a-Family, a program and holiday tradition aimed at brightening the holidays for families in need.
The Salvation Army collaborates with more than 10 agencies that refer families to the Adopt-a-Family program, where entire families, including parents, are adopted and receive gifts.
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"Each square represents a family, and there are boxes and boxes piled up on those squares, just really making sure that we're helping families that are having an extra hard time right now," said Becky Darrow, Greater Green Bay Salvation Army director of social services.
Preparations began in September, but Darrow noted this has been their busiest season in years.
"We have 384 families coming today for Adopt-a-Family, so we need volunteers who can come to their square, load up all their stuff, and get it in their car. It takes a lot of people to make all that happen," Darrow explained.
Diamond Radey, who is celebrating Christmas with her 11-month-old twins, wanted to create an unforgettable holiday season for her family.
She told Local 5's Samantha Petters she is grateful for the Salvation Army’s work to ensure the holidays are merry and bright for everyone in the community.
"What they do here is amazing," Radey said. "It means a lot to see people really do care, and it's been a tremendous help."
While basic needs like blankets and clothing are among the most essential, giving her twins a memorable first Christmas is what Radey is most looking forward to.
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"They go through toys so fast, and you have to have double of everything because if they like it, they both want it," Radey said. "So toys, clothes—we just started solids, so we tend to lose plates—just lots of clothes!"
You can help make the holidays brighter by having your family, organization, or business become a donor.