Christmas Program
Following a custom that began more than 100 years ago, when the Mission brought gifts to island residents and lighthouse keepers, the Mission distributes holiday gifts to children, families, elders, prisoners, and nursing home residents at Christmas time. Generous donors bring or send new items to the Mission throughout the year to be distributed throughout our communities, and the Elves’ Workshop gives families the chance to choose gifts for one another. Gifts are wrapped, as per Mission tradition, in white parchment paper tied with red string.
The program is one way that the Mission aims to have each year end on a joyful and hopeful note for all we serve.
In 2023, 9,144 gifts distributed to 1,143 individuals in Hancock and Washington Counties, and on outer, unbridged islands
Christmas Program Sign Ups
The Mission supports families by offering Christmas gifts to families with children under 18. The Program serves residents of Addison, Beals Island, Cherryfield, Columbia, Columbia Falls, Deblois, Harrington, Jonesboro, Jonesport, Machias, Milbridge, Steuben, Mount Desert Island towns, and islands served by the Sunbeam.
Once a family’s request is received, they are contacted by Mission staff who help parents and guardians choose a day for them to shop for presents or set up a time when items chosen by volunteers can be either picked up or delivered in the Mission’s service area.
Donate to the Christmas Program
Following a custom that began more than 100 years ago, when the Mission brought gifts to island residents and lighthouse keepers, the Mission distributes holiday gifts to children, families, elders, prisoners, and nursing home residents at Christmas time.
If you’re mailing items, please send them by Monday, December 2 to:
Maine Seacoast Mission Christmas Program, PO Box 428 or 6 Weald Bethel Lane, Cherryfield, ME 04622. See a full wish list on our website.
Our work is your work, made possible by your generous gifts.
No matter how hard times get, the Mission will be there, helping sustain and strengthen families and communities. Please join us. Your donations bring warmth when it’s cold, shed light where it’s dark, and give strength when burdens grow heavy.
Contact us to donate, volunteer, or arrange for planned giving.