YMCA Celebrates 35 Years of Neighbor to Neighbor Christmas, Bringing Holiday Magic to More Than 1,000 Children
The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg is thrilled to celebrate the 35th Annual YMCA Neighbor to Neighbor Christmas Program. For more than three decades, this signature program has brought the magic of the holidays to families who need it most. This year, it will support more than 400 underserved families and over 1,000 children with the joy and wonder of a traditional Christmas.
To help create memories that last long beyond the holiday season, families will receive a live Christmas tree, ornaments, a grocery gift card, books, games and toys, and a complimentary registration for a season of sports at the YMCA for each child. Planning for this effort begins months in advance as dedicated staff and volunteers work to ensure every detail is perfect.
“Now more than ever, families need to feel the warmth, hope and magic the holidays can bring,” says YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg President & CEO, Nicci Bucher. “This program is our YMCA’s way of making sure every neighbor feels cared for during this special time of year.”
This annual initiative features three events: Bagging Day on Dec. 3, Tree Delivery Day on Dec. 6 and Toy Box Shopping Day on Dec. 18. Volunteers and staff will gather at YMCA locations across St. Petersburg and Largo to assemble gift bags, deliver trees and help parents select toys, books and games for their children, creating dignity, excitement and heartfelt connection.
“The success of the program is built upon the title that names it — neighbors helping neighbors,” says Bucher. “We are deeply grateful for the hundreds of donors and volunteers whose generosity brings the spirit of Christmas to families in need not only during the holidays but throughout the year.”
Community members can help keep the tradition alive in three meaningful ways: volunteering, donating toys and giving financial support. Learn more about how you can get involved in the YMCA Neighbor to Neighbor Christmas Program.
