United Way confirmed that every family and individual on its list received a sponsor. People gave in a variety of ways, from direct donations to the Light the World Giving Machines and Giving Trees programs.

“We are thrilled to be part of this community and find a way to serve the people in need,” United Way President Bill Hulterstrom said. “The generosity shown this year is truly inspiring.”

Sub for Santa demand matched last year’s record high, according to United Way, with 42% of participating families being first-time program participants.

Yet according to United Way spokeswoman Julianne Jones, an outpouring of support and a high amount of toy donations early in the process helped fill up the warehouse and reduced the stress levels of members of the organization.

Jones suspected the timing of increased funds was correlated to the support United Way received during the temporary pause of SNAP payments in early November.

“We had a relief fund for SNAP and so maybe people’s attention had already heightened, and their interest was already there,” she said.

Jones added that many of the asks in this year’s Sub for Santa were for essentials, such as warm clothes, reflecting how high the need was.

“One family, they just needed underwear, clothes, socks, shoes. I mean, there wasn’t a lot of asks for toys, which was interesting,” she said.

Those who received items were grateful for the support.

“It’s a very emotional experience,” one client said. “When people give so generously to your family, it brings back hope you didn’t even realize you had lost.”

While every family has been taken care of, United Way warned there could be last-minute emergencies and told donors willing to be on standby to support a family to visit SubForSanta.org.