As the new school year approaches, community members have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the life of a local student.
The Kids Christmas program, in partnership with Emily’s Hope Chest, is inviting individuals, families, businesses, churches, and civic organizations to sponsor one or more students by providing the school supplies they need for a successful school year. Every child deserves to begin the first day of school feeling prepared, confident, and ready to learn.
When you sign up to sponsor a student, you’ll be matched with a local child in need. You’ll receive the student’s identification number, grade level, gender, school, and a school-specific supply list. Simply purchase the requested backpack and school supplies, label the items with the assigned student number, and return them to one of the designated drop-off locations.
Drop-off locations include:
- Linn County Juvenile Office in Linneus
- Local Luxuries in Brookfield
- Marceline Police Department in Marceline
All sponsored school supplies must be returned by August 14, 2026, to ensure students receive their items before the start of the school year.
Those who would like to help but prefer not to shop can also make a monetary donation. Financial contributions will be used to purchase supplies for students who have not yet been sponsored.
Checks may be made payable to Kids Christmas or Emily’s Hope Chest. Donations can also be made through Venmo at @EmilysHopeChest.
Community members interested in sponsoring a student can sign up at:
https://stallose.wufoo.com/forms/sjc19zp1a0u00d/
The cost of preparing a child for school can be a challenge for many families, but together, our community can help ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed. Whether you sponsor one student or several, your generosity will help children begin the school year with confidence and the opportunity to focus on what matters most – learning.
By working together, we can help every child in our community start the school year prepared, confident, and ready to learn.