Boys & Girls Club Blog

October 30, 2025

For many of us, the holidays mean cozy gatherings, laughter and the joy of giving. But for some families in our community, this season can also bring difficult choices, like deciding between paying bills and putting gifts under the tree. That’s where you can make a difference!

The Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh offers several ways to help local youth and families during the holiday season. Whether you choose to adopt a family, donate winter clothing, or contribute to a Thanksgiving meal, every act of generosity helps create a brighter, more joyful season for those who need it most.

Adopt a Family Program

Our Adopt a Family program connects generous donors with Club families who could use a little extra support. Each family creates a wish list for their children, and donors shop for and wrap gifts to make those wishes come true. Last year, more than 283 youth experienced a brighter holiday thanks to the kindness of our community, and we’re ready to do it again in 2025! 

To learn more about this program or to get involved, click here!

Donate New Winter Clothing & Hygiene Baskets

Many children and teens come to the Club without proper winter gear. This year, we are collecting waterproof gloves of all sizes, warm hats, snow pants and winter coats for middle school and teen members (adult sizes small, medium, and large). Your donation ensures every child can stay warm and comfortable during the colder months.

To make your impact even greater, consider donating a hygiene or household basket. Parents are always grateful for practical items such as laundry detergent, body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand soap and toilet paper. These items can also be donated separately, and the Club will distribute them to families in need throughout the season.

To learn more about this program or to get involved, click here!

Thanksgiving Meal Donations

Each year, the Club provides Thanksgiving meals to families who may not otherwise be able to enjoy a traditional holiday dinner. With the support of generous donors and community partners, families receive Festival Foods–prepared Thanksgiving Day meals complete with turkey, sides, gravy and dinner rolls. Your contribution helps ensure that every family can gather around the table and share in the warmth of the season.

To register or learn more about this event, click here!

Join the Festival Foods Turkey Trot

Start your Thanksgiving morning with a tradition that gives back. The 18th Annual Festival Foods Turkey Trot will take place at the Oshkosh Senior Center (North Building, 234 N. Campbell Road). Proceeds from the event benefit both the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh and the Oshkosh YMCA. Bring your family and pets for a morning of fun, fitness and community spirit. All participants receive a long-sleeved T-shirt and a six-inch Upper Crust pumpkin pie from Festival Foods.

To register, click here!

More Ways to Give

In addition to our programs and events above, there are even more ways to support Club kids and families this holiday season. By contributing to our Wishlist or making a donation to our Building Project or general fund, you’re helping create a safe, inspiring space where children can learn, grow and belong.

We’re always refreshing supplies to keep programs vibrant for every age group, and every contribution—big or small—helps our Club members thrive. To view our Wishlist, visit bgcosh.org/support/wishlist, or make a donation at bgcosh.org/donate.

Thank You for Making a Difference

This holiday season, your kindness helps ensure that every child has a reason to smile. Your generosity brings warmth, joy, and a sense of belonging to hundreds of local youth and families in Oshkosh. Together, we’re making the holidays brighter and more memorable for everyone at the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh.

To get involved in any of the above programs please contact Bethany Ferguson, Development & Grants Coordinator, at (920) 233-1414 x122 or bethanyf@bgcosh.org