Adopt A Working Family
Why This Matters
Across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana counties, many ALICE families are working—often more than one job—yet still struggle to cover basics like housing, utilities, and childcare. Your adoption delivers relief and dignity during a financially stressful season.
Eligibility Snapshot
At least one employed adult (18+) in the household
Child under 18 living in the home (or expectant family)
Residence in Muskegon, Newaygo, or Oceana County
A referral is required from an employer, school district, or caseworker (not United Way staff). Families must complete the application form themselves, and your referral must be willing to verify information with United Way
Must have an email that is checked routinely
Not enrolled in another holiday gift program; withdraw if accepted elsewhere after applying
Must disclose any relation to United Way staff (for transparency)
Have Questions?
Key Dates at a Glance
For Families (Applicants)
Applications open: October 27, 2025
Deadline to apply: November 24, 2025 (may close early if capacity is reached)
Acceptance notifications: Within 2 weeks of applying
All denials or wait‑lists will be notified by December 2, 2025Pickup/Delivery of gifts: By December 22, 2025 (gifts not wrapped; wrapping supplies may be included)
For Adopters (Donors, Teams & Companies)
Sign‑ups open on October 27 (rolling until families are matched or capacity is reached)
Receive your matched family profile: Within 1–2 weeks of sign‑up (or sooner as available)
Drop‑off gifts by: December 18, 2025 (specific date/time included in your match email)
Include (optional): Wrapping paper/tape/bows (please do not pre‑wrap)
Families will not be available for viewing until the first week of November.
How Adopting A Family Works
Sign up as an individual, family, club, faith group, or workplace team.
Get matched with a local household (first names/ages, sizes, wish list, and needs).
Shop with care for essentials (coats, boots, bedding, hygiene items) and a few wish‑list items for each person.
Deliver to United Way (or approved site) during your scheduled window; we handle distribution.
Celebrate impact. You’ll receive a brief follow‑up on program outcomes.
Program size (2025): We will thoughtfully serve 50 families across the Lakeshore to ensure high‑quality matches and sustainable logistics.
United Way Contact
Primary Lead: Sara Sherwood (they/them), Community Engagement Coordinator | Email Here
Backup: Dom Bunker (she/her) , Senior Director of Community Solutions | Email Here
Have questions after you sign up or apply? We’re here to help.
FAQs
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Households in Muskegon, Newaygo, or Oceana counties with at least one working adult and a child under 18 (or expectant). Families are referred by an employer, school, or caseworker.
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Give within your means. Many adopters aim for $75–$150 per person, prioritizing essentials plus a small wish‑list item. Larger families can be paired with teams or corporate groups upon request.
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Yes—especially for groceries, gas, or general merchandise. Please activate cards and note amounts.
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Please do not pre‑wrap. Including wrapping supplies is encouraged so caregivers can personalize the experience.
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Yes. For safety and clarity: no weapons or weapon‑adjacent items (e.g., firearms, knives, ammunition, hunting equipment). Outdoor recreation items that are not weapons (e.g., fishing poles/lures, scent‑free soap, boots, gloves) are welcome.
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To protect privacy, adoptions are anonymous. United Way coordinates pickup or delivery; however, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis with approval from program staff.
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Absolutely. Make a donation and our team will purchase items aligned to each family’s needs. Click Here to Donate (For tax questions, please consult your advisor. Acknowledgment letters are available.)
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Contact us right away so we can reassign the match. Timely communication ensures families still receive support.
United is the Way!
When you adopt a family—or give to the program—you’re helping neighbors bridge the gap between working hard and making ends meet. United, we turn generosity into stability for local families.