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11/28/2025
Community programs providing holiday gifts and resources for families in need are experiencing heightened demand this year.
The Bridge, a key player in community support, reports a surge in applications for its angel tree program, with 300 more requests than the previous year. Co-founder Carli Worley notes they’ve expanded to serve 136 children, tripling last year’s capacity. Many requests are for essentials like hygiene products and simple toys like socks and Hot Wheels.
Worley emphasizes, “It definitely speaks to the need we’re seeing in the community.” The program now also prioritizes requests from 16- to 18-year-olds, who often miss out on other supports. Tags can be picked from angel trees at The Bridge’s thrift store and other locations, with gifts due by Dec. 19.
River of Life Church’s Toys4Joy has also seen increased demand, with the program currently capped at 500 children. Donations of toys and funds are welcomed, with families able to “shop” for gifts in mid-December. The Salvation Army’s programs might support around 600 families, with angel trees set up at various locations.
Missoula County Public Schools have organized various support initiatives, including angel trees, to aid about 700 families. There’s an uptick in families needing help with basic necessities, highlighting the ongoing community support.
Missoula homeless shelters prepare for cold snap, plan overflow space
With a cold snap predicted, Missoula’s shelters are coordinating with the city and local churches to provide extra space for those in need. National Weather Service forecasts snow and low temperatures, prompting preparations for overflow accommodations. The city’s main homeless shelter, Johnson Street, closed earlier this year due to funding issues, intensifying the need for alternative spaces.
The Poverello Center is nearing capacity, with plans for overflow spaces in churches if necessary. These will be available when temperatures drop to feel like 10 degrees or below, staffed through community programs. The YWCA’s Family Housing Center and domestic violence shelter are also preparing for increased demand during the cold spell.
By the Numbers
The annual Can the Cats/Can the Griz food drive raised over 1 million pounds of food, with Missoula contributing a significant share. Missoula gathered 1,091,755 pounds, including substantial monetary donations, supporting local food banks. The record-setting effort comes amid delays in federal food assistance, highlighting the community’s commitment to addressing food insecurity.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
Missoula seeks feedback on reducing train horn noise. The city considers a special improvement district to fund quiet zones, aiming to minimize disruption near train crossings. A survey and more details are available online.
Seasonal closures begin Dec. 1 to protect elk habitats. Recreation areas around Mount Jumbo will see restrictions. Detailed maps and closure information are available online.
Missoula and partners receive a $250,000 grant for clean energy projects. The grant supports initiatives to enhance energy efficiency and reduce pollution. Details on potential projects will follow from local partnerships.
Property tax deadlines approach. Missoula County reminds homeowners to submit taxes by Dec. 1 to avoid fees. Payments can be made online or at designated drop-off locations.
Christmas tree permits on sale. Lolo National Forest offers permits for tree harvesting, with guidelines outlined on the Forest Service’s website.
Might be Fun
Residents are encouraged to shop local on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29. The Downtown Missoula Partnership’s website lists participating businesses and deals.
Indigenous Made Montana’s Winter Market features over 50 artists at the Missoula County Fairgrounds this Saturday, offering unique crafts and live entertainment.
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