A Holiday for Hope giving tree turns a broad wish to help into a specific next step. A donor chooses a tag, follows the gift request, and returns the item so StrongSteps can coordinate distribution to an approved household.

For families facing financial hardship or housing instability, holiday expectations can add pressure to an already demanding season. This campaign brings businesses, volunteers, and donors together around a practical community response. A gift does not solve every challenge a household faces, but it can be one thoughtful way to show up.

How the giving tree process works

StrongSteps’ Holiday for Hope page explains the process: families request support, StrongSteps reviews requests, approved households receive private family numbers, and individual gift requests appear on tags at participating locations.

Community members select a tag, purchase the requested item new and unwrapped, and return it with the tag by the host’s posted deadline. Read the instructions carefully rather than assuming all locations use the same return date.

Why the tag matters

The tag connects a gift with a particular request. Keep it with the item and ask the host or StrongSteps if an item is unavailable or the instructions are unclear. A well-intended substitution may not match the need, size, or age range on the request.

Before making a large purchase or collecting items as a group, check what the campaign can currently accept. Coordinating first helps volunteers manage the items that arrive.

Family privacy comes first

StrongSteps uses confidential family numbers rather than public names, addresses, or phone numbers on tags. Please do not try to identify the household, request a child’s contact details, or expect photographs or personal stories in exchange for a gift.

Generosity should preserve a family’s choice about what they share. Campaign updates can celebrate community participation without turning a recipient’s private circumstances into publicity.

Other ways to participate

• Find a giving tree and follow the posted instructions.
• Ask about hosting a tree or sponsoring an approved household.
• Explore volunteering with tags, gift sorting, or distribution support.
• Make a financial gift; confirm any campaign designation through the donation process.

Looking for support?

Use the current application link on the official campaign page. Applying does not guarantee gifts. Holiday for Hope is not emergency housing, immediate financial assistance, or crisis response. For broader needs, ask StrongSteps about resource options.