About the Program
Embracing the true meaning of social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg is once again teaming up with our community in 2026 to bring the spirit of Christmas to nearly 400 families and nearly 1,000 children. For more than 30 years, the YMCA Neighbor to Neighbor Christmas Program has provided families in need with the joys of a traditional Christmas.
- Families receive a live Christmas tree, ornaments, holiday dinner, books and toys
- Each child receives a free full season of youth sports or aquatics
- Families receive invitations to all YMCA Family Fun Events throughout the year
Help us deliver joy and hope this holiday season to those who need us — now more than ever.
Join hundreds of donors, volunteers and staff to help provide the magic and nostalgia of the Christmas season to the children of our community.
Help Us Spread Joy This Christmas
Volunteer
Give the gift of your time - volunteer to help with tree delivery and shopping events.
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Give Toys
Help stock our toy room! Shop our online wishlists, or find a nearby toy box collection site.
Details»
Share
Help spread the word about this program and encourage others to help support our neighbors.
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Donate
Every dollar contributed directly benefits the children and families in the program.
Donate Online»
Sponsorship
Community-minded businesses, organizations and individuals sponsor this program.
Learn More»
Volunteer Opportunities
Give the gift of your time - volunteer to help with tree delivery and shopping events.
Tree Delivery Day
Saturday, December 5, 2026
Volunteers will join YMCA staff members to deliver Christmas trees (if requested) directly to families’ doorsteps, along with all the necessary tree-trimming items and important information regarding toy shopping. Launch sites include Childs Park YMCA and Bardmoor YMCA.
Available Positions: Driver Elf, Navigator Elf (Detailed Descriptions)
Toy Shopping Day
Wednesday, December 16, 2026
Adopted families will visit the YMCA to collect free toys from our shopping room. In addition, families will receive a youth programs voucher for each child. This event takes place at Childs Park YMCA.
Available Positions: Set-Up Elf, Shopping Elf, Table Showcase Elf, Clean-Up Elf, Shopping Spree Elf, Corporate Cheer Elf (Detailed Descriptions)
Give Toys
Help stock our toy room! Shop our online wishlists. Toy collection sites will open across St. Petersburg after Halloween - please check back for a map!
Shop Online
We've created online wishlists for the items and age groups needed the most. Shop online from anywhere, and items will be shipped directly to the Y.
Share
Help spread the word about this program and encourage others to help support our neighbors.
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Email»Donate
Every dollar contributed directly benefits the children and families in the program.
In order to remain in compliance with Florida State Senate Bill 700, the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg (YGSP) cannot accept charitable contributions from citizens, residents or entities of the People's Republic of China, Russian Federation, Islamic Republic of Iran, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Cuba, Venezuelan regime of Nicolas Maduro, or Syrian Arab Republic, nor can the YGSP accept gifts made on behalf of any foreign sources of concern as defined by Florida law.
By making a gift to the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, you certify that:
- You are not affiliated with any of these countries.
- Your donation is not funded or routed through them.
- You are legally authorized to donate and the funds are lawful and aligned with our mission.
Interested in sponsoring this event? Please complete and return the sponsorship form below. For questions, contact Suzanne Delaney, CFRE, CFRM, Chief Advancement Officer, at 727.895.9622 x2244 or [email protected].
Sponsorship Opportunities
2026 Sponsors
Please note that a copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free within the state (1-800-435-7352). Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the state. Please refer to registration #CH2079. A professional solicitor has not been retained and the organization receives 100% of your contribution.