With just days before Christmas, the United Way of Utah County is needing the public’s help, whether from individuals, families or groups, to help spread holiday cheer to the less fortunate through its Sub for Santa program.

According to the agency, the need for donors to take on families is greater than in years past, more than has been seen in at least a decade. As of Sunday afternoon, there were 432 families that needed a Santa to assist them in bringing Christmas to their home and children.

“This year is unprecedented as we have over 2,200 families in our program, which is almost 7,000 individuals, including Golden Angels,” who are elderly or disabled adults, said Marketing Director Danielle Moran. “This is an incredible opportunity to join with your family, friends and neighbors to help a family in need.”

If you have finished your personal shopping and can find a few more dollars to help the Sub for Santa program, the organization is looking for residents to sponsor other families in need. United Way also will take cash donations and do your shopping for you. They have volunteers willing and ready to with lists to purchase items.

“Every year, I’m so impressed with the generosity of our community and know they will make this happen,” Moran said. “We’re hoping to have all families sponsored by (Friday). Thank you for all those who have helped and will help. We couldn’t do this without you.”

This time of year is always a crunch time at the United Way of Utah County Sub for Santa. But every year, people who live in the county make it all come together.

“I am continually amazed at the number of individuals that find a way to step up each Christmas to help,” said Bill Hulterstrom, president and CEO. “Though the needs are greater than in recent years, I am confident that once again our community will help create another miracle.”

If you can sponsor a family or donate, visit https://subforsanta.org and get matched with a family. You can also follow Sub for Santa on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn to see updated numbers of the families in need.

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