Colorado Springs – Harrison School District 2 has partnered with Pikes Peak United Way to launch an Adopt‑A‑Family program aimed at bringing holiday relief to families experiencing financial strain. The initiative connects individuals, families and local businesses with households that have been identified as needing gifts, essential items and everyday supplies.
How the program works
Donors can contribute gift cards, clothing, household goods, toys and holiday treats. The district says the partnership with United Way helps ensure that each contribution reaches the families most in need, based on detailed wish lists compiled by the families themselves.
Who will benefit
This year the program includes 100 single‑parent households and 37 families with seven or more members, the largest household comprising ten people. Among the participating families, 12 are grandparents raising grandchildren, and 27 are multigenerational or include extended family members. Additional hardships reported include 16 families who have lost an immediate family member, 11 who have endured a major tragedy, 13 facing serious health issues, and 12 who have experienced homelessness during the past year.
Children are a focal point of the drive: 55 youngsters have asked for bicycles, and many families have listed other specific items that would make the season brighter.
How to donate
Donations can be dropped off at the Pikes Peak United Way Family Success Center, located at 1520 Verde Drive, on December 9 and 10. The center will accept all listed items and will coordinate delivery to the families based on the wish‑list information provided.
Community response
One family who received assistance last year shared, “During such a difficult time, your compassion has brought us comfort, hope and joy. Your generosity means more to us than words can truly express. Thank you for reminding us of the true spirit of the season. We will always remember your kindness.”
District officials encourage anyone who wishes to learn more about the participating families, their individual circumstances, or the specific items on their wish lists to visit the Adopt‑A‑Family website linked in the original announcement.
Why it matters
By focusing on local families, the program underscores the importance of community stewardship and the role of faith‑based and nonprofit partners in supporting traditional families during the holidays. The effort aligns with broader community‑first values, emphasizing personal responsibility, charitable giving and the preservation of strong family units.
Residents who cannot donate physical items are also invited to contribute financially through the United Way’s online portal, ensuring that every family can receive the help they need.
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Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
