For the last 10 years, Missouri Slope Areawide United Way has provided gifts to any local children in need. All Bismarck and Mandan schools may enroll children in the program, as well as United Way partner agencies.
More than 1200 gifts are being delivered by volunteers. The parade of volunteers in Santa hats with large Santa bags will begin at 12 PM on Thursday, December 12th at the United Way office, located at 515 N 4th St in Bismarck.
This year, 396 choldren are on the list. Additional families may be helped from now until the big day. Children are referred by school counselors and United Way agencies. Parents and children supply specific wish lists, including both wants and needs.
The lists of children are shared with Salvation Army and Aid, Inc. to avoid duplication of families being served.
“United Way wants to make sure every child in need has extra joy on Christmas day. Each child’s wishlist is sponsored by generous community members.” Jena Gullo, Executive Director
In recent years, a ten-year-old student asked for a keyboard piano. Jason Millner, Stifel, offered to take that tag because of his love of music and giving.
Another child asked for cowboy boots. Jaden Huntley stepped up to fill that expensive wishlist gift. His three boys are blessed with full cowboy gear, so he wanted to make sure another child had the same.
One girl listed “a haircut” as her primary wishlist item, so United Way reached out to Glance Salon who donated 5 free haircuts.
In addition to fun toys, United Way fulfilled all basic needs listed, such as bath wash, underwear and socks for the kids.
To donate to United Way’s Giving Tree, visit www.MSAUnitedWay.org/giving-tree