This year, Oakland Family Services’ holiday program has a new name: Gifts of Hope. Formerly known as Adopt a Family, this program has evolved to reflect its mission of spreading joy, support, and hope throughout Oakland County. Thanks to the generosity of the donors, staff, and volunteers, Gifts of Hope was able to bring warmth, cheer, and a sense of togetherness to families this holiday season, providing thousands of gifts over a six-day period.

Program Impact in 2024

·      Over 320 families, including over 700 children, received holiday gifts and essentials through the program, helping to make their season brighter.

·      More than 160 donors contributed gifts, ranging from toys and clothing to gift cards and household necessities.

·      Over 100 volunteers lent their time, working behind the scenes to organize, pack, and distribute gifts with care and efficiency.

·      The program was supported by local businesses, including Ven Johnson Law and McLaren Oakland, who not only provided crucial funding but also contributed by volunteering and donating.

How Gifts of Hope Works

Each year, clients of Oakland Family Services - including families in need of behavioral health treatment, parenting support, children and teens in foster care, and preschoolers/toddlers attending our Children’s Learning Centers - are invited to submit wish lists for the upcoming holiday season by the end of November. These families are then paired with generous donors, who choose the size of the family they wish to support.

Once matched, donors shop for the gifts, wrap them, label and deliver them to Oakland Family Services’ Pontiac office. Volunteers then unload the gifts from vehicles, pack them into large bags and boxes, code them, and store the gifts, preparing them for the families’ arrival. On pick-up days, volunteers assist families by loading their vehicles with their gifts, ensuring the experience is as smooth and joyful as possible.

A Community Effort

The success of Gifts of Hope is a reflection of the power this community’s collaboration. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part—whether through donations, volunteering, or sponsorship. It is this collective effort that ensures the program’s ongoing impact and ability to spread holiday cheer to families throughout Oakland County.

This year’s program saw an impressive outpouring of support. Volunteers and donors worked tirelessly, making sure that each family’s wish list was carefully matched and that gifts were delivered with care. Families were able to pick up their holiday gifts in a seamless process, thanks to the dedication and organization of all involved.

The Gifts of Hope program continues to evolve, and each year it becomes a powerful reminder of how connected we all are, especially during the holidays. Thank you to all our donors, volunteers, and sponsors for helping make 2024 a season of hope and joy for families in Oakland County.