The wish lists are longer, and the stakes are higher. This holiday season, more than 1,400 local children have been identified by Southwest Human Development as needing a little extra cheer, a sharp increase from last year. Through its Gingerbread Kids Holiday Gift Drive, the nonprofit is sounding an urgent call for help from the community to make sure no child is left out of the celebration.

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In a powerful show of community spirit, major Valley businesses including PetSmart, Mortenson Construction, Marshall’s, Arizona Central Credit Union and more have partnered with Southwest Human Development to collect and deliver holiday gifts for children living in underserved communities. Corporate volunteers will drop off their donations at the organization’s Phoenix headquarters in early December, helping transform the season for hundreds of families.

“This program is the heartbeat of what the holidays are truly about, community, kindness, and connection,” said Tay Wright, Volunteer Engagement Manager at Southwest Human Development. “When partners donate, they’re doing more than giving gifts, they’re giving children moments of joy, parents moments of relief, and families moments of hope.”

Now in its annual season of giving, Gingerbread Kids allows employees at our participating companies to “adopt” a child by sponsoring their holiday wish list. Each Gingerbread Kid ornament includes details such as clothing sizes and favorite items, making it personal and meaningful for the volunteer purchaser.  Each person is asked to spend between $40-50.  

This year’s drive comes at a time when many Arizona families are still feeling the ripple effects of a strained economy. For parents balancing rising costs of food, rent, and childcare, the ability to give their children holiday gifts can feel out of reach.

“Every year, we see how one simple act of generosity, one wrapped present, can remind families they’re not alone,” said Wright. “It’s proof that even in tough times, joy can be found.”

Ways the Community Can Get Involved

Southwest Human Development invites the public to join the Gingerbread Kids campaign in several ways:

• Your Company Participates in Gingerbread Kids: Your team identifies a leader who will coordinate with SWHD to get the Gingerbread tags, distribute and ensure that the presents come back and get delivered.  Contact us at www.swhd.org/gingerbread.  

• Shop Online: Purchase curated gifts through the organization’s https://www.swhd.org/store/gingerbread-kids-holiday-gift-drive/, where items are matched directly with a child in need. Participant donations are eligible for the Qualifying Nonprofit Tax Credit of $495 for an individual and $987 for a married couple.

• Make a Monetary Donation: Financial contributions help fill gift gaps and ensure every identified child receives something special. Donations can be made online or dropped off in person.

Once collected, gifts are distributed to caregivers, allowing parents to wrap and personally give presents to their children, creating a heartfelt family moment that lasts well beyond the holidays.

Businesses interested in hosting internal drives or partnering with Southwest Human Development can contact the organization to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and logistics.

For more information about the Gingerbread Kids program or to participate, visit www.swhd.org.