There are a few local agencies that can help out during the holidays. Families in Johnson and Washington County (and the surrounding areas) can get free Christmas gifts, toys, food boxes, and more. There are also other holiday programs, such as providing free Thanksgiving dinners, meals, turkeys, or other goods.
The main options for places to live in both Iowa City and the nearby counties are listed below. Free Christmas toys and meals are typically given out to boys and girls in November or December. There are many programs available to help low income families, the working poor, elderly, and others. Some of these programs include:
There are various organizations in Iowa City that collect toys for children in need during the holidays. The Salvation Army has an Angel Tree where people can donate toys, and there are also several food pantries and meal programs that distribute toys to families in need.
Each agency can help only one family. This means that families in need can only receive assistance from one organization during the holiday season, and that organizations will not provide duplicate assistance to the same family.
Regional Toys for Tots is a charity that provides toys for children in need. It is run by volunteers and relies on donations. The Toys for Tots program is a nonprofit organization that collects and gives out new, unwrapped toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children. Children who are 14 years old or younger can receive a gift if their family’s income meets the targets and limits that have been set. Between October and December, applications and toys are provided. The primary partners are Salvation Army and North Liberty Community Pantry.
The Crisis Center of Johnson County is a nonprofit organization located in Iowa City, Iowa. Their main number is (319) 351-2726. They operate a few different holiday programs, including a holiday food program and a holiday gift program. Some organizations give away free food, meals, and gift baskets. There will also be a range of small presents given out, such as stocking fillers and other gifts.
Shelter House is a place where the homeless can get a hot meal, Thanksgiving dinner, and other help. The main address is 429 Southgate Ave, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. For hours, please call (319) 351-0326. In addition to food, people in need may also receive winter clothes and other necessities like blankets.
The Coralville Community Food Pantry is a place where people in need can go to get free food and other items like Christmas toys. They also use volunteers to help serve a holiday meal at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Some people who may have trouble cooking or leaving their homes can have a holiday meal delivered to them. This can be especially helpful for senior citizens or disabled people.