As the 2025 holiday season approaches, the Warren-Washington-Issaquena-Sharkey Community Action Agency (WWISCAA) is inviting residents to participate in its annual Family Wish Tree Program, launched this year under the theme “Resilience Through Community.”
Agency leaders say the program comes at a time when many households across the region continue to face financial strain tied to job losses, rising costs and lingering impacts from recent government shutdowns. The effort aims to help restore stability, dignity and hope for families struggling to meet basic needs.
The Family Wish Tree Program allows individuals, organizations and businesses to sponsor a family, donate gifts or make financial contributions. “Giving isn’t just about presents — it’s about presence,” the agency said in its announcement. “It’s about showing up for those who feel forgotten.”
Applications for assistance will be accepted from Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, through Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. WWISCAA serves families across a five-county area and provides toys and clothing for children from infancy through age 17. Eligibility requirements must be met for participation.
Wish Trees will be displayed at each intake office through Dec. 12. Stars placed on the trees will list the gift requests of eligible children and youth. Sponsors can select a star, purchase the items and return them to the appropriate county office by the deadline. WWISCAA staff will distribute the gifts, ensuring they are delivered “with care and dignity.”
Households applying for the program will also be screened for additional services offered by the agency.
INTAKE LOCATIONS AND HOURS
Washington County
1165 S. Raceway Rd., Greenville, MS
Hours: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–2 p.m., Monday–Thursday
Phone: 662-378-8663
Contact: Martha Davis
Sharkey/Issaquena Counties
19719 Hwy 61 South, Rolling Fork, MS
Hours: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–2 p.m., Monday–Thursday
Phone: 662-873-2595
Contact: Vera Brown
Warren County
2022 Cherry Street, Vicksburg, MS
Hours: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–2 p.m., Monday–Thursday
Phone: 601-638-2474
Contact: Reba Causey
Yazoo County
129 S. Main Street, Yazoo City, MS
Hours: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–2 p.m., Monday–Thursday
Phone: 662-746-1517
Contact: Dorian Rouster
All purchased items must be delivered to the intake office in the sponsor’s county no later than Friday, Dec. 12, 2025.
Applicants are required to bring a valid photo ID, Social Security cards for all household members, proof of income for the entire household and proof of residence. Applications cannot be processed without complete documentation, the agency said.
Executive Director Jannis Williams said the program offers families and supporters an opportunity to turn “struggle into strength” and make the holiday season “a season of purpose, not just celebration.”
