AFL-CIO assists over 100K individuals through Adopt-A-Family program since inception

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The AFL-CIO Community Services said the 2025 Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program concluded, marking a momentous milestone.

The program has assisted over 100,000 individuals over the past 43 years, providing holiday support to families and individuals facing financial hardship throughout Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas.

The Adopt-A-Family program was first started in 1983 following a heartfelt request shared on local radio. A K-Jo DJ encouraged listeners to consider adopting real people in need for Christmas rather than popular holiday toys like Cabbage Patch Kids.

In the first year, 243 individuals were adopted through the program.

Since its inception, the program has connected thousands of donors with families and individuals in need, ensuring children wake up to gifts on Christmas morning and households have essential items during the holiday season.

Each year, community members, businesses and volunteers come together to provide gifts, clothing, food and household necessities, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and solidarity defining the program.

For more information about the Adopt-A-Family program and how to get involved, visit the agency's website at helpmenow.org.