Help Us Bring Christmas to Island and Downeast Residents

by | Oct 3, 2022 | News

Christmas in Frenchboro in 1930 and 2019

Right before Christmas in 1905, we delivered our first Christmas presents to residents and lighthouse keepers living on Maine islands. More than a century later, the we still delivers gifts, wrapped in white parchment paper tied with red string, to island residents and people living in Washington County. Last year, because of the generosity of donors to the Christmas Program, 1,264 people received gifts. Now we are looking for your help to fulfill our 2022 Christmas Wishlist and brighten the holiday season for so many individuals and families who might not have presents to go under the tree. 

“Giving those white-paper-red-string gifts is an incredible Christmas tradition that goes all the way back to the beginning of the Mission,” said President John Zavodny. “With the help of donors and our amazing ‘elves,’ the volunteers who wrap and distribute each gift, we are grateful to be able to be a part of so many people’s Christmases.”  

We distribute presents to kids, families, and the elderly as well as to nursing homes and prisons, making sure that every person who needs a gift for Christmas will receive one. The items needed for gifts are separated into three different categories: all ages, seniors, and children and teens. The wishlist includes everything from toys and games to bodywash and socks. Since 1905, the Mission’s gift giving tradition has included distribution of knitwear. For knitters and crocheters who wish to donate their wares, mittens, hats, prayer shawls, scarves, socks, and lap robes are appreciated. 

How to Donate

The 2022 Christmas Program wish list and Amazon wish list are available for those looking to donate specific items of need. Stephanie Moores, Family and Community Engagement Program Manager, who runs the Christmas Program, says that gift cards to Walmart and Amazon as well as monetary donations are also welcome, which will help the Mission fulfill specific requests.  

Gifts and cards can be mailed to Maine Seacoast Mission Christmas Program to PO Box 428, Cherryfield, ME 04662 (USPS) or 39 Weald Bethel Lane, Cherryfield, ME (UPS). Checks should be addressed to Maine Seacoast Mission Christmas Program, P.O. Box 600, Northeast Harbor, ME 04662. The Mission would like to properly acknowledge all contributions, so please include a full name and address on any package or letter sent to the Mission.  

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