More than 500 Jefferson County families received holiday assistance from Jefferson County Christmas Neighbors in 2025. As the organization prepares for another season, applications for its Toy Distribution and Adopt-A-Family programs opened November 2.
Jefferson County residents may apply online for the Toy Distribution Program only at https://forms.gle/m7GfRQ1FgF4Q6ofT8. through Thursday, December 10. Residents may apply for either the Toy Distribution Program or the Adopt-A-Family Program by calling 920-674-4499 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Since 1952, Jefferson County Christmas Neighbors has provided vital support to income-eligible families across the county during the holiday season. Through the generosity of community members, the organization distributes new toys, gifts, winter accessories, and food to local families in need. In 2025, Jefferson County Christmas Neighbors was able to help over 1,800 children have a brighter holiday thanks to widespread community involvement and support.
“The strength of Christmas Neighbors is that people across Jefferson County help in whatever way they can,” said Deb Ristow, president of Jefferson County Christmas Neighbors. “A donated toy, a warm pair of mittens or an afternoon of volunteering can make a real difference for a child right here in our community.”
Jefferson County Christmas Neighbors is accepting donations of new and gently used toys, children’s books, and Christmas décor, as well as new hats, gloves, scarves, mittens, wrapping paper, scotch tape, and household items in excellent condition.
Donation drop-off locations include:
- Jefferson: Badger Bank, Premier Bank, Fort Community Credit Union, County City Credit Union, Theisen’s, Jefferson Public Library, Tan-A-Latte, and Jefferson Memory Care
- Fort Atkinson: Badger Bank, Premier Bank, Fort Community Credit Union, Trinity Lutheran Church, Paddy’s Irish Pub, PaddyShack Golf & Gaming, Dwight Foster Public Library, Sarahndipity Salon, Capputan, Pick ‘n Save, and the Fort Atkinson Fire Department
- Johnson Creek: Badger Bank and Premier Bank
- Watertown: Pizza Ranch, Arby’s, Mullen’s Dairy Bar, Associated Bank, and Watertown Public Library
- Ixonia: Create-A-Pack
- Sullivan: Premier Bank
Donations will also be accepted on December 15 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Jefferson County Fair Park Activity Center.
Monetary contributions are also welcome and may be mailed to:
Jefferson County Christmas Neighbors
P.O. Box 177
Jefferson, WI 53549
Or donated securely online at www.christmasneighbors.org.
For additional information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please contact the Christmas Neighbors office during regular business hours starting November 2.
Editor’s note: A northern portion of the city of Whitewater is in Jefferson County; the majority of the city is in Walworth County.
