IMPACT MATTERS

At the beginning of each December, many of the communities’ Sub for Santa programs are already filled to capacity, leaving many families without an opportunity to apply. United Way of Salt Lake (UWSL) recognizes this shortage and has responded by accepting applications for families in need beginning December 5 and ending December 21.

This year, UWSL has taken a different approach to the standard program. The partnership with Salt Lake Advocacy and Community Training gives United Way of Salt Lake the opportunity to serve more children. This is a one-stop shopping model where families complete the intake process, shop one-on-one with volunteers to select items for their own children. This approach allows parents the opportunity to actually shop for their children and cater to their specific needs, while reducing the difficulty associated with trying to match specific gifts to individual families.

United Way is using federal poverty guidelines to determine eligibility for the program. Families with children up to the age of 18 will be accepted. Sub for Santa coordinates with other holiday programs to ensure families receive help without duplicating services. Families needing assistance can call 2-1-1 or 326-8199 to hear a recorded message.

It is clear that there are people in this community who want to offer assistance during the holiday season. The new model allows a variety of ways for groups and individuals to help. First, people can provide gifts of toys or clothing (please see our wish list for items most needed). Second, there is a need for volunteers to staff our intake center to work one-on-one with the families that come in to shop. More information about staffing needs can be found here. The third option is to offer help in the form of a cash donation to aid in stocking the intake center.

Items for the wish list are now being accepted at the following locations:

Crossroads Mall
47 West South Temple, Salt Lake City
10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Use north entrance to mall

Family Support Center
777 West Center Street (7720 South), Midvale
10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Use rear entrance to drop off Sub for Santa items

Menlove Dodge Toyota
2380 South Highway 89, Bountiful
10 a.m.–8 p.m.

It is extremely critical that the Sub for Santa intake center is initially stocked for distribution by December 5. If you are considering donating gifts for the store, please check the online Wish List to find what items are in highest demand. Please consider volunteering for the Sub for Santa program this year, and help ease the burden of our low-income families. Any help that you can offer will bring holiday happiness and help to restore hope for a better future. Click here to volunteer.