The Arc of Atlantic County’s Holiday Partners “Adopt-A-Family” Program seeks community support to “brighten the season’” for over 150 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families who are in need and living in Atlantic County.

Every family served by The Arc of Atlantic County is unique, each with its own traditions, challenges, and hopes for the season. Some families are multigenerational, others are smaller households or individuals living independently, while others are working to stretch tight budgets or secure reliable transportation. What they all share is the desire to enjoy the warmth, connection, and comfort that the holiday season can bring.

Holiday Partners represented by a variety of community members, including individuals, businesses, families, schools, community groups, service organizations, employee resource groups, and others—who epitomize the spirit of giving back. This can be done by providing gifts, gift cards, or monetary assistance to individuals and families who would otherwise go without.

Families of all types benefit from The Arc of Atlantic County’s Holiday Partners Program, including these men, who share a home.

Supporting the Holiday Partners Program is a fun and meaningful way to give back as a family, group of friends, club, or office, while recognizing and honoring the diverse needs and stories of the people served.

“Our Holiday Partners program is in full swing, and we’re asking the community to help us provide holiday meals and gifts for local individuals who use our services,” said Rebecca Reed, Director of Clinical Services. “People with disabilities are challenged with applying for benefits, accessing transportation, and having the finances to shop for food or purchase gifts during the holidays. Each family we support is different, and the Holiday Partners Program allows us to meet people where they are, so they can enjoy the simple joys of the holidays and the spirit of the season.”

Donations may be made from now through December 30, 2025. Make a monetary donation online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/thearcofatlanticcounty or by check mailed to: The Arc of Atlantic County, ATTN: Holiday Partners 6550 Delilah Road, Suite 101, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

This year, our Holiday Partners can view a variety of Individual or Family Wish Lists by logging onto https://www.roonga.com/holidaypartners2025.

There you can select a local individual or family to adopt, then follow the links or directions to purchase gifts. You can choose to wrap and deliver the gifts yourself, or our team of “Holiday Helpers” will make it happen.

All Holiday Partners donations are used to purchase holiday gifts, meals and gift cards for individuals who use services at The Arc and have a financial need.

Individuals residing in The Arc of Atlantic County’s residential programs are also in need and included in the wish lists. These individuals have unique preferences and need as well—ranging from essential clothing to sensory-friendly items or favorite hobbies—making each adoption a personalized act of kindness. Items needed most include clothing, shoes, pajamas, socks, games, gift cards, and more.

Each donation helps make the holiday season a little brighter for people living with disabilities in our community, reminding them that they are seen, valued, and supported.

“There is nothing more heartwarming than seeing someone receive a holiday gift, share a meal, and experience the warmth of family and friendship during the holidays,” said Scott Hennis, CEO of The Arc of Atlantic County. “Our community’s generosity makes moments like these possible, and we look forward to the smiles and joy it brings to the people we serve.”

For more information, or to adopt a family, contact: Rebecca Reed, Director of Clinical Services 609.485.0800 ext. 175, rreed@thearcatlantic.org.

To learn more about supporting The Arc of Atlantic County, please contact: Mary Ruley Moyer, Director of Development and Community Outreach, 609.485.0800 ext. 135mmoyer@thearcatlantic.org.