CINCINNATI (Oct. 5, 2026) – The holidays may not be top of mind just yet, but United Way of Greater Cincinnati is already preparing to make the season brighter for about 150 local families. The organization is recruiting volunteer shoppers — individuals, families and groups — to participate in its sixth annual Adopt-A-Family program.
Volunteers are matched with local families and receive lists with suggested gift ideas. Shoppers have several weeks to purchase gifts before delivering them to United Way in December for distribution through community partners. The program focuses on families who are in kinship care arrangements, in which children are temporarily cared for by relatives or family friends with close ties to a parent facing difficult circumstances. These arrangements can give children stability and connection to people they know and trust while families navigate changing circumstances.
“Every year, Adopt-A-Family reminds us of what’s possible when people across our community choose to show up for one another,” said Moira Weir, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cincinnati. “There’s something special about shopping from a family’s personal wish list. It turns generosity into a real connection between neighbors and helps create some joy during a season that can bring added expenses and responsibilities for families.”
Last year, the community helped United Way exceed its goal of serving 150 families. More than 160 volunteer shoppers provided gifts for 188 families — nearly 850 people. United Way coordinated with 18 faith-based and community partners to identify and refer participating families.
Nefertiti Allen was among those who participated last year. She has children of her own and occasionally takes in young relatives when they need stability. “Adopt-A-Family really did help out because with my nieces being in the situation they were in, they didn’t even think they would get something,” Nefertiti said. “So, when I was able to (participate), it really lifted them.”
How Adopt-A-Family works
Volunteer shoppers should register by Oct. 30 at uwgc.org/adopt-a-family. Families will be matched with volunteers on a first-come, first-served basis. United Way will provide shoppers with personalized lists of suggested gift ideas no later than Nov. 20.
United Way suggests spending $75 for each family member, but volunteers are encouraged to purchase gifts in an amount that best fits their budget. Volunteers should bring gifts to United Way of Greater Cincinnati (2400 Reading Road) on one of several dates provided during registration. Community partner organizations will then distribute the gifts to families in time for the holidays.
