Rotary group seeks donors to help 13 families buy new toys at reduced prices

The Milwaukee North Sunrise Rotary Club has opened its 2026 Christmas With Dignity fundraising campaign. The club invites residents, local businesses, and community organizations to provide financial support for the program. This year, the initiative aims to serve approximately 12 to 13 Milwaukee-area families during the holiday season.

Sponsored by the club since 2017, Christmas With Dignity operates differently from traditional gift programs. Participating parents do not receive preselected items. Instead, they visit a special shopping event where they choose and purchase new toys, books, and clothing for their children. These items are available at deeply reduced prices, allowing families to celebrate the holidays with a sense of choice and pride.

The program extends its impact beyond the immediate holiday shopping experience. The modest amounts paid by participating parents for the merchandise are not kept by the Rotary Club. These funds are donated to charities selected by the families themselves. This structure allows parents to provide for their children while simultaneously giving back to causes they value.

The club is seeking donations of all sizes to purchase the quality merchandise needed for the event. The group also hopes to use the funds to expand the number of families the campaign can serve in the coming year. Individuals, local businesses, civic groups, and other community partners are encouraged to contribute to the effort.

Community members can make an online donation at mnsunriserotary.org. The club requests that contributions be received by December 15, 2026, to ensure the necessary inventory is in place for the shopping event. David Carter of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee North Sunrise submitted the announcement for the community post.