Shapiro Administration Rings in Holiday Spirit with 33rd Annual Holiday Wish Program

Holiday Wish ProgramKeystone Early Learning Center Childrens Choir perform at the 2023 Holiday Wish Campaign, an annual adopt-a-family holiday gift drive supporting lower income Pennsylvanians. /Credit: Commonwealth Media Services

PENNSYLVANIA — The Shapiro Administration’s cabinet members joined together on Wednesday to celebrate the 33rd Annual Holiday Wish Program. Led by Commonwealth employees, the initiative aims to spread holiday cheer by providing gifts for Pennsylvanians in need.

This year, the program will deliver gifts to over 600 individuals, encompassing more than 150 families and 60 seniors. The move exemplifies the administration’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and shared joy during the holiday season.

Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of the Department of Human Services (DHS), expressed her pride in having colleagues across Commonwealth agencies who dedicate their time during the festive season to ensure fellow Pennsylvanians have a joyous holiday. She further encouraged every Pennsylvanian to consider giving back this year as they are able.

The Holiday Wish Program works in collaboration with local DHS County Assistance Offices (CAOs). When families or individuals visit a CAO to apply for benefits, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Medicaid, caseworkers identify those in need who could benefit from the Holiday Wish program.

Participants in the Holiday Wish program select a few gifts they need or would like to receive. State employees, private organizations, and individuals then sponsor these families or individuals to ensure they receive special gifts during the holiday season. Every December, representatives from Commonwealth agencies and the Pennsylvania National Guard come together to distribute these gifts to hundreds of families across Pennsylvania, spreading a wave of festive cheer statewide.

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