Adopt a Family

Image of presents on a table at Community Relations' Adopt a Family Event.

Presents that were donated for the Adopt a Family event.

Each holiday season, the Office of Community Relations coordinates a university-wide initiative that offers departments on campus the opportunity to brighten the holidays for families in need throughout the Western New York community. 

On this page:

About the drive

We work with community organizations and partners to nominate dozens of needy families throughout Western New York for the University Adopt-a-Family program. Our office also reaches out to interested campus departments who wish to commit to sponsoring these needy families. The outpouring of campus support for families in our community has been immense, with steady growth of the program each year, and more than 35 departments participating this year.

Important dates

  • Mid-October: UB departments are contacted to confirm participation and family nominations are solicited from community partners
  • Mid-November: Departments are notified of their matched family and wish list
  • Mid-December: Gifts are due to the Community Relations office for wrapping and sorting
  • Late December: Gift pick up day and holiday party for drive participants

Wish lists

Departments are provided with wish lists from the family, as well the ages and genders of family members to guide them in their holiday shopping. Past gifts range from from toys for children, to clothes and needed household items.

Interested in participating?

UB offices and departments of any size are invited to adopt a family. We make sure to match departments with an appropriately sized family.

Community organizations and non-profits are encouraged to contact our office for our nomination form and more information.