Be the Reason a Child Smiles This Season - Community Thread’s Holiday Hope Program Seeks Donations

Stillwater, MN — For 55 years, Community Thread’s Holiday Hope program has brought the spirit of the season to life for local children in need. Since 1970, this cherished tradition has helped thousands of families receive extra support to help them create special memories around the holidays. 
 
Last year alone, the generosity of local businesses, organizations, and individuals made it possible to support 887 households, including 1,723 children. 

As the 2025 holiday season approaches, Community Thread is collecting new and unwrapped gifts valued at $15 or more for children ages birth – grade 12. Beyond toys, items may include age-appropriate books (picture and chapter), arts and crafts kits, science kits, room decor for teens, Lego sets, sports memorabilia, and sports jerseys. Donations may be dropped off at Community Thread or any local Holiday Hope Collection Site by Friday, December 12. 
 
Those interested in donating online, finding a collection site, or viewing this year’s Official Wish List can do so at www.CommunityThreadMN.org/Holiday. Donations of cash are also welcome and will be directed toward local children in need living within the boundaries of Stillwater Area Public School District. 
 
To serve older adults and adults with disabilities, Community Thread will accept donations of grocery gift cards. Grocery gift cards will then be provided to Thrive Program participants that receive free or reduced priced memberships. 
 
For more than half a century, Community Thread has been connecting people, neighborhoods, and lives to strengthen the area. Its mission is to maximize resources and engage volunteers to improve the quality of life for adults and families in our community. To learn more, please call 651-439-7434 or www.CommunityThreadMN.org.