Denville Social Services has opened sign-ups for its 2026 Adopt a Family program, and the first holiday wish lists go out to volunteer “adopters” starting Friday, Nov. 6.
The long-running program pairs Denville families and seniors facing financial hardship during the holidays with residents, businesses and groups who want to help. It is anonymous: families and seniors send wish lists to Social Services, each list is assigned a code, and the coded list is emailed (or mailed, on request) to an adopter, who then shops for the items.
The township suggests a limit of about $50 per family member or senior, but that is only a guideline, and adopters are welcome to spend more or go beyond the list. Gift cards for grocery stores and retailers are a welcome add-on. Adopters who cannot shop can give gift cards that match what their family or senior asked for, including department store, online retailer or prepaid Visa and American Express cards.
Social Services notes that wish lists are not always returned quickly, so some adopters may wait a bit to be matched. The office will try to honor a preference for the type of family or senior someone wants to adopt, but cannot guarantee it.
Gifts are dropped off at Township Hall, 1 Saint Mary’s Place, only during set windows outside regular office hours:
Wednesday, Nov. 25, 5 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 5 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 9, 5 to 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 5 to 8 p.m.
Wrapping is optional, but every gift or gift card should go in a black bag clearly marked with the assigned code number.
To sign up, use the link on the township’s Adopt a Family page. Questions go to Social Services Coordinator Stephen Dublanica at (973) 625-8300, ext. 269, or socialservices@denvillenj.org. Any program changes will be posted on that page and on the Friends of Denville Social Services Facebook page.
Older residents looking for year-round support can also find clubs, trips and free rides through the Denville Senior Center.
Featured image: Township of Denville
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