When a Community Comes Together: WBKR Christmas Wish Serves Nearly 8,000 Children

This season reminded us just how real the need is for so many families, and just how incredible our community can be. Throughout this year’s Christmas Wish program, we witnessed how neighbors showed up in the most meaningful ways. Because of your generosity, 1,912 families were able to experience the magic of the holiday season. Every gift, donation, and act of kindness helped ease a burden and bring hope where it was needed most. Together, you proved that compassion is powerful. Let’s take a look back at what we accomplished this season.

’Tis the Season to Be Jolly

Jolly doesn’t even begin to cover it! Because of the generosity and teamwork of this community, 1,912 families were able to enjoy a Christmas filled with warmth and joy. Nearly 8,000 children woke up to surprises under the tree, and over 50,000 gifts were shared throughout the season. It was a whirlwind from start to finish, but with your help, it all came together beautifully. From donors and volunteers to fundraisers and behind-the-scenes helpers, every single effort mattered. You helped spread holiday magic far and wide, and we’re so grateful for each of you!

With Gratitude to Our Community Partners

If you happen to see the owners or team members from these businesses around town, please take a moment to thank them on behalf of our entire community. Their generosity this holiday season helped bring hope and relief to families who needed it most. These partners are truly the heart of Christmas Wish, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support. Because of them, we’re able to keep our overhead low and focus our resources where they matter most. Their kindness makes this mission possible and helps brighten the season for so many.

We also want to give a huge shout-out to the owners and stores at Towne Square North for going above and beyond. Thanks to their commitment and generosity, we were able to use every inch of 50,000 square feet to bring this mission to life. The former Big Lots location was a total game-changer this season. We couldn’t have done it without them.

Owensboro RV
DMC Graphics
Lampkin Land Wurx
Greenwell Chisholm Printing Company
Bako’s Party Rentals
Coca-Cola
Daviess County Pork Producers
Green River Appliance & Furniture
Santa for St. Jude
CRS One Source
Alexander & Company CPAS PSC
Pepsi
Kroger
Extra Space Storage
SignPros
Schrecker Supply Company

This year at Christmas Wish Headquarters, we experienced a first when a teenager wished for an urn for her grandfather, who had raised her and meant everything to her. James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory immediately stepped in and generously donated a beautiful urn in his favorite color showing what community is all about! #thankful

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Delivering Joy, One Package at a Time

We truly couldn’t do this without the support of these retailers, who help make the holidays brighter for so many children year after year. Your partnership means the world to us, and we’re incredibly thankful for the role you play in this mission. By making it easy to shop by giving extra discounts, you’ve helped turn everyday generosity into real impact for families in need. Thank you for standing with us and for being such an important part of Christmas Wish.

Five Below
Kroger
Ollie's
Kids 4 Good - Owensboro
Walgreens
Gabe's
Bealls
Walmart
Dollar General
Mega Replay
Sam's Club

We also want to recognize the incredibly hardworking FedEx, UPS, USPS, and Amazon drivers who showed up day after day, delivering countless packages straight to Christmas Wish. Your dedication kept everything moving and made the magic happen behind the scenes.

Fueling the Holiday Heroes

Our volunteer elves have been unstoppable this season, logging over 10,000 hours of hard work in Santa's workshop! From sorting donations to picking gifts, they’ve been the heart behind Christmas Wish, making sure families felt the joy of the season.

A huge shout-out goes to the incredible restaurants and generous individuals who kept our elves (aka volunteers) well-fed and energized. Your delicious support kept spirits high, coffee cups full, and gifts flying! Thanks to you, our volunteers had the fuel they needed to make this season unforgettable.

Thank you to Henderson Chevrolet GMC & Kate Faupel Ford for sponsoring the Christmas Wish Satellite Studio, and for adopting needy families.

A Season to Remember

WBKR Christmas Wish

Christmas Wish program

holiday giving program

community generosity

helping families at Christmas

children’s Christmas assistance

📸 With over 150 photos in our Christmas Wish gallery, there’s a good chance you’ll spot a familiar face! Take a scroll and see who you know 🎄✨