Find programs, agencies, businesses and other places that give away stuff for free.
NHPB also has information on charity and church programs too for free items, and find free local giveaways in your community.
ShannonW wrote: ↑Wed Sep 10, 2025 9:03 am
Hello,
I relocated to Wisconsin a few months ago and am looking to help a family in need for the holiday season. While in Tampa I was able to connect with local charities who would provide me with a family or families who couldn’t afford Christmas gifts. I was wondering if someone could point me in the right direction of who I could contact in either the Esau Claire, Milwaukee or Wausau area to get a wish list from a less fortunate family and want to give back.
Thank you,
I am in desperate need of Christmas for my nine-year-old daughter. I was recently residing in South Carolina and called back to Alabama by my oldest child in belief that she been in trouble and needed me after not speaking to me for years after trying to kill me. I packed up and came to her aid to realize she was not honest. Now my daughter and I are homeless and have no means of purchasing her Christmas. Please point me in the direction I can get assistance.
Hello,
I relocated to Wisconsin a few months ago and am looking to help a family in need for the holiday season. While in Tampa I was able to connect with local charities who would provide me with a family or families who couldn’t afford Christmas gifts. I was wondering if someone could point me in the right direction of who I could contact in either the Esau Claire, Milwaukee or Wausau area to get a wish list from a less fortunate family and want to give back.
Thank you,
Hi, my name is Yadira, and I have four children: two girls, ages 10 and 15, and two boys, ages 12 and 7. My family and I are currently homeless. On December 30, 2023, I got married to my wife, Alyssa. We decided to rent a bigger home, and we had found one in North Vegas. On March 30, 2024, we had already moved some of our stuff and had our new key to our new place.
On April 1, 2024, when we arrived at our new place to move the rest of our stuff, we noticed that the lock was changed and had a lockbox. We peeked through the window and noticed our stuff was gone, and we saw a lease sign by the porch. My wife and I right away called the owner of the place and asked him why the lock was changed and why he had a lease sign by the porch. Then he tried to tell me and my wife a story, and then he tried to send us to a different property. That’s when my wife and I learned that we had gotten scammed.
In that moment, we became homeless and lost everything. This situation has been really hard for us because it has affected us in many ways, especially for my children. We were new to this homeless situation. We didn’t know what to do. It affected our whole family. It became a challenge to all of us because we had to learn to cope with it.
It’s been really hard to catch up since we lost everything. When I refer to everything, that means because we lost our storage, we couldn’t afford to pay for it. We also lost our vehicle—it got repossessed. We were staying at Motel 6, and when we woke up the next morning at 9 a.m. and went outside, our vehicle was gone. Our little bit of clothes that were in our van stayed there. We didn’t bring anything down because we were only staying for one night. My important papers stayed in the car, our clothes, my cell phone, and my 7-year-old son’s shoes stayed there.
We were left with no clothes, only what we were wearing. My son was barefoot because his shoes had stayed in the van. We couldn’t pay our monthly car payment; we didn’t have the money. At that moment, we were staying in Palm Springs, CA. Then the police arrived because the people from the hotel had called, saying we were still outside their property. When they arrived, they came up to us and approached me, my wife, and my kids. We explained to them that we were homeless, that we were coming from Vegas, and that our vehicle had gotten repossessed here at the hotel. Our little bit of clothes, our important papers, and my son’s shoes had stayed there. I told them that’s the reason we were still outside the hotel.
So they offered us their help and took us to a small cooling center for adults. We went there to get food and to ask for resources that could help us. The officer gave me and my wife his business card to let him know if the center ended up helping us. But sadly, at the moment, they didn’t have the help we needed. Then my wife and I called the police officer to let him know, and he took us to a charity church, where we signed up for help to pay for our train to get back to Lompoc, CA. The church helped us with the transportation tickets. My family and I are thankful for the help they gave us.
After we arrived in Lompoc, we called resources for help, but they would put us on a waiting list, and we started struggling. Our lives were a challenge. My kids and I were new to Lompoc, though my wife grew up there and her family lives there. Then we called the shelter that the town has there, and they let us go in on November 15, 2024. So we waited a week. Then we went into the shelter, but they ended up kicking me and my family out December 2, 2024, because they were being sexist.
We tried other resources after that, but they were completely full. Then inflation started, and it got even harder. Everything was full, and we were just on the waiting list. Last year, my wife and I didn’t give our kids a Christmas because we didn’t have anywhere to stay, and we slept in a car.
This year, in October, my family and I decided to ask my mom for help to let us stay in her home temporarily while my wife and I save enough money for a place. But it’s been very hard to catch up. This is our second year being homeless, and my wife and I just want our kids to feel the Christmas spirit and still have faith and believe that Santa Claus is real, despite the homeless situation we’re in. We just want to give them a good Christmas.
Hi,
3 adults in a hotel with the 6 kids? Are any of the adults working? As seems with 3 incomes should be able to at least get an apartment to share vs. a hotel room. Anyhow, since you did not say where you are (area) use this to scroll down for help at Christmas by area.
Mack Knight wrote: ↑Thu Aug 14, 2025 8:56 am
I'm in need of help because we are staying in a hotel and helping for Christmas. There are 6 children and three adults. The hotel takes up most of our money and we are in need of help for Christmas to get our family adopted for Christmas. I'm a disabled women and we struggle to keep a roof over our head, food in our mouths but we are very grateful and thankful for each day. So, if you can find it in your heart to help me and my family with the room and the Christmas, please can you give me a call.
I'm in need of help because we are staying in a hotel and helping for Christmas. There are 6 children and three adults. The hotel takes up most of our money and we are in need of help for Christmas to get our family adopted for Christmas. I'm a disabled women and we struggle to keep a roof over our head, food in our mouths but we are very grateful and thankful for each day. So, if you can find it in your heart to help me and my family with the room and the Christmas, please can you give me a call.
Hi Melissa,
To clarift, you are a single mom? If so, we have a dedicated page of resources here. https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/htm ... tance.html
But like you said / implied, you CAN'T miss a deadline. That is not on you and you not considering your kid. Please do better. You did not even seem to apologize for missing the deadline for sign up. But try what we sent for this upcoming year.
Matteo Romano wrote: ↑Thu Jul 31, 2025 3:18 am
My name is Melissa, and I am seeking help with Christmas assistance for my 9-year-old son. He is currently in my cousin’s custody, but I get to visit him during the holidays. It is very important to me to be able to bring him Christmas gifts this year. Unfortunately, I am not working right now and have not been able to find a job. In past years, Catholic Charities has helped me by providing gift cards to purchase presents for him. Sadly, I missed the sign-up deadline this year and was unable to get in. I am hoping to find an organization or program similar to Catholic Charities that may be able to assist me this holiday season. Any help you can provide would mean so much.
My name is Melissa, and I am seeking help with Christmas assistance for my 9-year-old son. He is currently in my cousin’s custody, but I get to visit him during the holidays. It is very important to me to be able to bring him Christmas gifts this year. Unfortunately, I am not working right now and have not been able to find a job. In past years, Catholic Charities has helped me by providing gift cards to purchase presents for him. Sadly, I missed the sign-up deadline this year and was unable to get in. I am hoping to find an organization or program similar to Catholic Charities that may be able to assist me this holiday season. Any help you can provide would mean so much.
Coco wrote: ↑Mon Nov 04, 2024 9:45 am
Hello. My name is Sherry. I am a retired health care provider and am now disabled and need help for the holidays including Christmas.
Best regards Sherry in Amarillo TX.
Hello. My name is Sherry. I am a retired health care provider and am now disabled and need help for the holidays including Christmas.
I am reaching out for help... My daughter is very ill with mental and addiction issues. I love on disability money and barely get by. The prices of food has made it almost impossible . I have been trying to take care of my grandchildren while their mom is so sick. She is currently in rehab and I hope she gets through it.
My question is, is there anyone that can help me with a Thanksgiving basket or Christmas toys so I can make them a good dinner. Also maybe some help with Christmas presents or money to buy them toys? These are good kids and I just don't have the money to give them gifts.
They wouldn't need much to make them very happy. Thank you for reading this letter.
Best regards Sherry in Amarillo TX.
Bella1 wrote: ↑Tue Aug 13, 2024 2:52 pm
Hello,
My name is Barbara. I am a single mother. I raised my son all by myself. Normally, I was able to get my son Christmas presents due to my career as a dental hygienist.
Hi Barbara,
While many of the holiday programs are basically "for everyone", there are a few that just focus on single mothers. Find those holiday resources here. https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/htm ... tance.html
Hello,
My name is Barbara. I am a single mother. I raised my son all by myself. Normally, I was able to get my son Christmas presents due to my career as a dental hygienist. My son is now 22 years old and has told many people that he got his good work ethics from watching me struggle by myself to get what he needed and wanted. Now, he asked me last night what I wanted for Christmas and he wants to help me this Christmas. He's so sweet. I told him what I wanted was to get my dental hygienist license back so I could get him a Christmas present.
Two years ago, I had major surgery on my Colon. I was out of work for 12 weeks for FMLA. So I couldn't afford the renewal dues for my license to practice dental hygiene. I recently become a victim of domestic violence. I've only been married to this man for 2 years. I have left him and once I get on my feet, I will file for divorce. I had no idea that the dues would increase to $630 to renew after the deadline! So I had a nervous breakdown and have been in and out of mental programs since then. I am doing much better now mentally, but I struggle financially. I became homeless. I just got approved for HUD and have found a place to rent. So, this year my son and I can have the holidays together!
I don't have any furniture or even a bed for him or myself. A friend told me about some of the programs that help families during the holidays. I'm not asking for furniture, beds or washer/dryer even though I need them all...I am asking for a Christmas tree and enough money to get him some presents. Since he's not a child anymore, I figured I'd give him gift cards for clothes or video games. I want to share Christmas with him like he wants to help ,e. And maybe a grant to help me pay the fees to get my dental hygienist license back so I can go back to work.
Hi all
While the Christmas programs often go by national names, like Toys for Toys or Angel Tree or others, many are offered locally. Local charities, volunteers and groups give out Christmas and Thanksgiving support in local towns, cities, and locations. Find those programs for Xmas here. https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/htm ... grams.html
I've been really down & depressed this holiday season! I've been going through a medical issue that's taken a toll on me mentally, physically & financially! I have a special needs son with Cerebral Palsy I care for on my own now along with a granddaughter I'm raising. I have my regular bills & medical piling up, no savings anymore, hardly any food in the house, nobody to help support wise or just to talk to & I care for my elderly parents as much as I can.
My car broke down about 7 months ago and I can't get to the doctor for Cerebral Palsy and can't work to get stuff for the holidays. I've just been praying & hoping for a break, a miracle or for things to turn around & get better. I'm losing hope because it feels like things just keeping get worse & worse. Not too mention Christmas is 2 days away & I have absolutely nothing for the kids & was either too late to apply for help because of not knowing about it or funding ran out. So I ask please, please say a prayer for my family.
Hello,
Happy Thanksgiving. I need Christmas help with a tree and gifts. I am anxiously looking everywhere online and have been for the last month. I have not had any responses or luck. I am currently sitting home not celebrating Thanksgiving this year because of financial hardship. My four-year-old son will be going to school Monday and listening to all of his friends share their Thanksgiving stories, and he will have no memories to share. I feel like a failure.
My husband has not been able to work as much due to Coronavirus, and I am a college student. I am trying to create a better life for us and Christmas help would assist. I cannot let him miss out on Christmas as well. Please let me know where I can sign up. I tried contacting both food banks here in Torrington, CT.
I was told by one that I had to be there for six months before signing up for the holiday help because people sign up just for the holidays. (Which makes no sense because peoples situations change).
The last one I called asked for copies of all of our social security cards and birth certificates. I had no problem showing them, but they wanted to keep it there. I do not trust that anyone can break into a food bank. I hope you enjoy your holiday and I hope to hear from you soon!
Hi, sorry to bother you but my family is in need of assistance this thanksgiving & Christmas holiday season. It’s my husband & myself plus my daughter & her 2 children & one about to be born in the next few weeks. Her utilities are close to being cut off. Her rent is past due & she’s off now because she’s pregnant. She has no income.
My husband & I try our best & have always helped since she’s been going through so much the last few years. Right now, we are in need of holiday assistance ourselves. I’m on disability & my husband is on SS. We just moved from my fathers & trying to get established. Bills are coming in & now I’ve been told I have to pay 3/4 of my monthly income for lawyer fees where I’m in a legal battle with my brother regarding my father. So, we was wondering if we could get some kind of assistance towards rent, bills, thanksgiving & Christmas turkey, or ham food baskets plus possibly help with presents for my grandchildren.
My daughter has had no money to buy anything & neither have we. I’m so sorry to ask & embarrasses by it too. Her 6 year old has a birthday on the 13th & unable to buy him any gifts either. I’ve never felt so broke & destitute in my life. If you could please help in any way & direct me please let me know. Thanks so much.
LaLisa.
Sent from my iPhone
You are kind of early, but there are free Christmas and holiday programs in Topeka. They generally have seperate application periods - but you can try to apply to each of them at the right time.
MrsJasnen wrote: ↑Tue Mar 10, 2020 9:09 am
I’m in need of help for Thanksgiving and holiday food basket.
I’m in need of help for Thanksgiving and holiday food basket. My grandchildren will be at my home from November 22nd till November 26th. I don't have food to feed them those day's I can barely feed myself, but they are coming from AND.J. I can't wait to see them it’s been over a year so excited to see their little faces ages are 16, 15, 13, and 8 boy. I’m begging for help with food for their visit. Pease if I don't have food then I can't see them this will be my Thanksgiving and Christmas with them this year then I won't see them for another 2 years God Bless. I live in Linwood AND Carolina 27299.
Thank You Very much
Good morning, I live in Tampa Florida. We are a household of 5, which includes 3 kids, we have been through financial hardship this year and I am worried my kids will have nothing under the Christmas tree this year. This is our 1st time asking for help so this is all new to us. I found your page online and I was wondering if there is any Holiday help for us available here in Tampa Florida. Thank you much and God bless.
Congratulations on your kids being straight A students. While trees are not usually free, there are places to turn to for free christmas gifts in Boston. We have a list of them.
So they may not get exactly what they need, but there will be some toys, clothing items, and other goods given to them.
Elon wrote:Have 2 boys ages 12 and 16 who are straight A students and I have no income except food-stamps. I wish I could put up a tree and have a couple of gifts for my sons, who have worked so hard this year at studying and be such great kids.
I am at my wits end at finding any help for them, to at least have some kind of gifts under a tree, but it's starting to look like they will have neither and I don't know what to do anymore. I AM SO SCARED THAT THEY WILL NOT HAVE ANYTHING SO I WANT TO SEND YOU A LIST OF ITEMS. PLEASE IF YOU KNOW OF ANY HELP I CAN GET FOR THEM THERE ARE NO WORDS TO EXPLAIN HOW GRATEFUL I WOULD BE. GOD BLESS YOU AND HOPE YOUR CHRISTMAS IS WONDERFUL. THANK YOU.
