Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald file photo

While Santa and his elves are taking a long winter’s nap, the United Way of Utah County is summing up how local Sub for Santa families did this year.

All families that applied for the program were taken care of, but there have not been as many families in need since the last recession according to Bill Hulterstrom, United Way of Utah County president and CEO.

This year’s data shows that 6,000 individuals — including 5,400 children and 600 teens and adults — were cared for. That’s nearly 2,000 families in Utah Valley.

There were 900 sponsors helping families and 400 volunteers sorting and delivering gifts. There were also 56 companies that partnered with United Way by hosting angel trees and sponsoring families.

Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald

What continues to amaze Hulterstrom is the number of volunteers that have helped with every aspect of the program, from helping applicants apply, to sorting gifts, to delivering those gifts.

“It’s been 40 years since this program began, and every year community members step up to help their neighbors,” Hulterstrom said. “When people need help, our community has always stood up and made the difference. People from all walks of life find a way to come forward and share.”

One mother in particular had a hard time keeping a job while trying to also take care of her two kids who are not in school. She said, “As much as I’ve felt alone in my struggles and trials as a single mom, there are so many people willing to help and give. It’s really given me a looking glass into how caring our community is.”

There are several sponsors that used to be on the receiving end, now doing what they can to give back.

“I was one of those families seeking help for Christmas one year. I’m grateful to be able to give the help I once so badly needed,” said one sponsor.

Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald file photo

Kayla Bradshaw, Volunteer Center Director at United Way, was uplifted by the giving spirit of Utah County residents in spite of rising inflation.

” We saw a response that shows the strength of our community. They showed up as volunteers, donors, and sponsors to lift and love those who needed that Christmas magic. They gave books, clothes and a few toys to families that would otherwise have had nothing under their trees,” Bradshaw said.

The Sub for Santa program also partnered with schools (social workers) and other agencies such as Wasatch Behavioral Health and Juvenile Justice to give help.

“It’s truly incredible to see how much people are willing to give,” Hulterstrom said.