United Way of Northeast Michigan is proud to celebrate the 48th Annual Christmas Wish List Program. This cherished community program connects generous donors with local children, youth, and families experiencing economic hardship during the holiday season.
Thanks to the support of our donors, last year’s Christmas Wish List Program served 401 youth and families. This year, we anticipate reaching more than 400 local youth and families—and we need your help to make the season brighter.
United Way works with NEMCSA school success liaisons to identify families and youth in need, confirm requested items, and match those requests with donors. We also collaborate with local agencies, organizations, and churches to prevent duplication of services and help ensure support reaches those who need it most.
Donors may choose to fulfill a specific gift request or make a monetary donation. Financial gifts are especially important because they allow United Way to purchase items for unmatched requests at the end of the program. Donations may also help provide food, household essentials, and fuel gift cards for local families.
To donate, make checks payable to United Way of Northeast Michigan and write “Christmas Wish List” in the memo line. Mail donations to United Way of Northeast Michigan, 108 Water Street, Alpena, MI 49707. Online donations may be made at unitedwaynemi.org; please designate your gift for the Christmas Wish List Program.
2026 Christmas Wish List Timeline
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October 26–November 27: Donor matching, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Contact Catherine Abraham at (586) 703-4019, United Way of Northeast Michigan, 108 Water Street, Alpena. -
November 30–December 4: Gift Receiving Week, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
AMA/ESD Main Office, 2118 US-23 South, Alpena, across from Taco Bell. -
Friday, December 4: All gifts must be received by 5:30 p.m.
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December 7–14: United Way will purchase unmatched gift requests and certificates with donated funds, then sort and prepare gifts for distribution.
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December 15–16: Gift distribution.
For questions, contact United Way of Northeast Michigan at (989) 354-2221 or Joseph Gentry at jgentry@unitedwaynemi.org.
Together, we can help make the holiday season peaceful, joyful, and hopeful for our neighbors.