“to say we are thankful is an understatement! Thank you for the time, energy, and love you put into making my family's Christmas special!"
-CADA client and mother of 2
here's how it works
Gift Budget
We suggest spending around $75–$100 to fulfill a wish list. This amount helps ensure each participant receives thoughtful and comparable gifts.
Client Codes
Each wish list includes a client code in the upper right corner. This code helps us keep gifts confidential and ensures they are matched with the correct recipient.
Holiday Cards
You’re welcome to include a neutral, kind holiday card (for example, “Wishing you peace and warmth this holiday season”). Please don’t include identifying information such as your name, address, or workplace, or photos.
​
​We want the families we serve to have the opportunity to decide who they tell their children the gifts are from, so please keep your card unsigned.
Gift Wrapping
We would appreciate having gifts wrapped.
-
Label each gift with the client code (found in the upper right corner of the wish list)
-
Include one printed copy of each person's wish list and note which items are inside the wrapped gifts. This is important so we can be sure gifts go to the correct person!
If you’re unable to wrap, please consider including gift wrap or gift bags instead.
No Wish Lists Left? You Can Still Help!
If all wish lists have been matched, there are still ways to help! You can:
-
Donate gift cards (Target, Walmart, gas stations, or grocery stores).
-
Provide wrapping supplies like paper, bags, or tape.
-
Make a financial donation to support families through CADA’s holiday program.
Gift Drop-Off
Please bring gifts to CADA’s office at 100 Stadium Court, Mankato on: December 10, 11, or 12 between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
​
Come to the front double doors for gift drop-off.
My Wish List Doesn’t Have Much Information
Sometimes wish lists don’t include many details — and that’s okay! The items listed are just suggestions, and you don’t need to purchase the exact things.
If you’re unsure what to buy, we recommend:
-
Choosing general, versatile gifts (like cozy blankets, self-care items, or household essentials).
-
Including gift receipts whenever possible.
-
Purchasing gift cards (Target, Walmart, grocery stores, or gas stations are always appreciated).
Your thoughtfulness and flexibility help make the holidays special for each individual and family we serve.
Timeline
october 20
sign up to become a cada elf
Simply fill out the form and let us know how many wish lists you'd like to fulfill.
november 3 - november 14
receive your wish lists
Most donors will receive wish lists between November 3rd and November 14th. Because families turn in lists throughout the season—even up to Christmas—we truly appreciate your patience while we make sure every wish list finds a match.
December 10 - 12
gift drop-off
CADA Elves can drop off gifts between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday. We appreciate that all gifts are wrapped and labeled with the unique client code from your wish list.
your impact last year
340 wish lists
wish lists were fulfilled by donors like you! That's nearly twice as many lists as 2023.
235 children
unwrapped gifts that brought joy and excitement!
135+ cada elves
made the season brighter for survivors and their families!
20 volunteers gave over 77 hours of their time
spreading holiday joy!