Bozeman Kiwanis Supports Hope & The Holidays

Hope & the Holidays is a local, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded by the Marine Corps League, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, area Lions and Kiwanis clubs and the Elks Lodge. The Vietnam Veterans joined our organization in 2017 and the Elks in 2019. We are dedicated to helping families during times of need – especially during the holiday season.

In 2023 we provided toys and gifts to 1,422 children up to 18 years of age, assisted 584 families and distributed 325 food baskets. Our Santa’s hotline logged 13.65 hours, 1,254 texts and 342 contacts through Webmail. In addition 20 families contacted us through Facebook. Thanks to all our volunteers who worked over 1,174.25 hours during distribution.

Each year, just before Thanksgiving, donation boxes are set out at participating local businesses. For about three weeks, volunteers gather up the toys/gifts for ages up to 16 years old and bring them to a location donated for use by Billion Auto Group in Bozeman. Volunteers sort the toys by age and gender and put them on display. Thanks to community generosity, we are increased the age up to 18 years of age in 2023.

Parents that do not have the means to purchase holiday gifts for their children can call Santa’s Hotline to schedule a shopping day in December. Families are also referred to us by numerous local agencies as well as concerned friends and neighbors. Santa’s helpers/volunteers cheerfully assist with their shopping. There are smiles on the faces of the shoppers as they leave knowing their kids will have gifts under the tree this holiday season.