Holidays
Families Forward hosts special holiday events each year to help the families we serve enjoy a happy holiday season. Between our four programs, there are several opportunities for you to give back this holiday season.
Gift Cards Needed
One of the most impactful ways you can support families at Families Forward, especially the teens in our programs, is by donating gift cards. Gift cards to places like Target and Walmart make for great gifts for the teens. We also need gift cards to gas stations, Hy-Vee, and Fareway, to help families meet essential needs during times of transition.
We’re currently in great need of gift cards in $25+ amounts.
Gift card donations can be delivered to our main office at 3001 Grand Ave, Des Moines. To ensure timely distribution, all donations should be received by Friday, December 5th.
Questions? Contact Melanie Wright at 515-244-9748 or melanie@familiesforward.org.
Essential Needs Baskets Needed
Looking for a simple, high-impact way to support local families? Build an Essential Needs Basket! These baskets provide critical household cleaning and hygiene items that many families can’t afford during times of crisis or transition.
We’re collecting new, full-size items, including:
Toilet bowl cleaner & brush
Glass cleaner
All-purpose spray cleaner
Laundry detergent & dryer sheets
Multi-surface & disinfectant cleaners
Paper towels & toilet paper
Hand soap & dish soap
Disinfectant wipes
This is a great activity for small groups!
Donations can be delivered to our main office at 3001 Grand Ave, Des Moines. Staff will be available to receive your donation Monday–Thursday from 8am–8pm and Friday from 8am–4pm. When you arrive, park in the delivery spot behind the building. To ensure timely distribution, all donations should be received by Friday, December 5th. Questions? Contact Melanie Wright at 515-244-9748 or melanie@familiesforward.org.
Volunteer With Us!
We have multiple needs across our four programs. Whether you enjoy spending time with our families or you are a super organizer, we have a job for you! See current volunteer needs here.
Questions? Contact Missy at missy@familiesforward.org.
Other Ways to Support
Shop our Amazon wish-list here.
Download The Holiday Wish List here.
