Sharing the Joy

"This year was so hard on us financially - this holiday season was not in the budget at all. But thanks to you, my daughter got gifts and her holiday spirit wasn't broken! I cried the whole ride home. I'm still in disbelief. Thank you for all you did for me and my family!!!"

We hear it every year - parents who want to give their kids a joyful season but don’t have the means.
Sharing the Joy connects those families with donors who shop directly from their wishlists.

A man and woman are standing in front of a child who is holding a cell phone.

Sharing the Joy - Client

"This year was so hard on us financially - this holiday season was not in the budget at all. But thanks to you, my daughter got gifts and her holiday spirit wasn't broken! I cried the whole ride home. I'm still in disbelief. Thank you for all you did for me and my family!!!"

We hear it every year - parents who want to give their kids a joyful season but don’t have the means.
Sharing the Joy connects those families with donors who shop directly from their wishlists.

A man and woman are standing in front of a child who is holding a cell phone.
Sharing the Joy

Helping Military & Veteran Families Find Hope for the Holidays

The holidays are hard when money’s already tight.

That's why we offer this one-time program to help families experience joy this holiday season and introduce them to our Financial Wellness Counseling Program, so they can build the stability to have that joy year after year.

military family in car getting presents.
Spreading Holiday Cheer

San Diego & Washington

Sharing the Joy is open to families and donors in San Diego, CA and Washington State. Whether you’re applying for holiday support or signing up to give it, we can't wait to connect with you this holiday season!

Adopt a Family

Spread cheer this holiday season:

Sign up to adopt a family.
Shop their wish list - everything ships directly to STEP during business hours.
Make a lasting impact. Your gifts bring joy now and help families begin their journey toward financial wellness.

Sign Your Family Up For Holiday Cheer

If the holidays feel more stressful than joyful, you’re not alone - and STEP can help. When you apply for Sharing the Joy, you’ll be matched with a donor who will shop directly from your family’s wishlist.

Active duty or Veteran (E1–E6 or within 18 months of separation)
Priority given to E4 and below, and first-time applicants
Kid-Friendly Activities
child holding toys