The Salvation Army collects toys to give to children in need for the holidays. (Photo provided by Salvation Army)

The holidays are almost here.

And If you’re looking for a list of holiday events and giveaways during this season, we got you. (We also provide information on how you can donate winter coats to help your neighbors stay warm.)

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(Did we miss anything? If so, please put in comments or email us.)

Meals

Christmas Family Feast: Wednesday, Dec. 25

The Salvation Army will provide free meals to the public from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 25 at the Baird Center, 400 W. Wisconsin Ave. If you are interested in volunteering, registration is still open. More information here. 

Toy drives and giveaways

Christmas Toy Drive: Thursday, Dec. 19

The Delta Xi Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. is hosting its seventh annual Christmas toy drive from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19 at 4707 W. Mill Road. Community members can donate new and unopened toys for children, ages 3 to 12, and enjoy an evening filled with bowling, interactive activities, raffles and more. More information here. 

Amani Holiday Giveaway: Thursday, Dec. 19 

Amani residents can stop by the Dominican Center, 2470 W. Locust St., between noon and 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19 to receive free holiday dinner supplies. Each family gets their choice of turkey or ham and all the fixings. 

You must live in the 53206 ZIP code to receive a grocery bag. On-site registration is required. Bring proof of address (ID & piece of mail). More information here. 

Free Toy Giveaway: Friday, Dec. 20 

Boost Mobile is hosting a winter holiday event from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20 at 1320 W. Burnham St. The first 50 children will receive a free toy. More information here. 

Christmas Eve Annual Toy Giveaway: Tuesday, Dec. 24 

The Prince Hall Masonic Temple is putting on its annual toy drive from noon to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 1218 W. North Ave. The event will include a live DJ, food, games and pictures with Santa. More information here. 

Coat drives

Brown Berets Wisconsin Coat Drive: Through Thursday, Jan. 30

Brown Berets Wisconsin is collecting coats until Thursday, Jan. 30 at El Conquistador Latino Newspaper, 4531 W. Forest Home Ave., and all El Rey locations. Monetary donations are also being accepted; $20 will cover the cost of one new coat. More information here.

Warm Winter Drive: Ongoing

The House of Peace is accepting donations from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday at 1702 W. Walnut St. You can call (414) 933-1300 with questions. 

St. Ben’s is accepting donations between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., Monday through Friday at 930 W. State St. You can call (414) 271-0135 with questions.  More information here.





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PrincessSafiya Byers was born and raised in Milwaukee, and is a 2020 graduate of Marquette University, majoring in Journalism and Africana Studies. Her commitment to her community has led her to nonprofit work with local youth and families. She’s also interned with the Milwaukee Community Journal and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and joins Milwaukee NNS as a Report for America Staff Reporter looking to serve democracy by covering issues important to the community.

Chesnie Wardell serves as a reporting fellow for NNS. In addition to compiling our popular “5 things to know and do” lists, she also writes features on notable North Side and South Side residents. She is a 2025 graduate of Marquette University, where she studied journalism and digital media.