United Way of Bemidji Area launches Holiday Gifts for Kids program

BEMIDJI — The United Way of Bemidji Area's annual Holiday Gifts for Kids program is underway.

Two distribution days are planned for families who pre-register to participate in the program. Parents and caregivers "shop" for a gift for their child and will also receive a board game.

"In 2024, over 1,300 children ages 0-17 experienced a joyful Christmas thanks to the generosity and kindness of others," stated the United Way on its webpage.

The first event is 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Sanford Event Center in Bemidji. This event is open to anyone living in Beltrami, Clearwater or Hubbard Counties, with registration due by Dec. 4.

Paper registration forms can be picked up at First National Bank locations in Bemidji, the Northern Dental Access Center, Beltrami County WIC office and the Boys and Girls Club of the Bemidji Area.

The second event is 3:30-6 p.m. Dec. 16 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Laporte. This event is open to anyone living in the Laporte area, with registration due by Dec. 9.

Paper registration forms for the Laporte event can be picked up at Trinity Lutheran Church or at Laporte Public School.

New, unwrapped gifts for local children from newborn to age 17 will be accepted at First National Bank of Bemidji locations, L&M Fleet, Menard's, Walgreens, Bemidji Ambulance, MJB Home Center, and the Tourist Information Center in Bemidji through Dec. 8.

Toy donations will also be accepted at Trinity Lutheran Church in Laporte.