SouthCoast Community Raises $30K for Families During 2025 Holiday Wish Week

For the past 11 years, the United Way of Greater New Bedford and Fun 107 have partnered for Holiday Wish Week, an annual event highlighting local families in need during the holiday season.

This year, we introduced you to five families:

• The Gray Family from Acushnet
• The Hicks Family from Wareham
• The Lynn Family from New Bedford
• The Poholek Family from East Freetown
• The Willis Family from Westport

The SouthCoast community once again rallied together to raise roughly $30,000 in 2025.

Making an Impact

"Holiday Wish Week gives families a much-needed break from the stress of the challenges they’re facing," said Victoria Grasela, Vice President of Marketing & Community Engagement for the United Way of Greater New Bedford.

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"Simply knowing that their community is standing behind them lifts their spirits and helps them push forward," she said.

We were touched by the texts and phone calls that filled our mornings throughout the week.

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Where Does the Money Go?

"The donations are truly the icing on the cake, providing peace of mind by ensuring that essential bills are taken care of so they can finally take a moment to breathe," Grasela said.

"Thanks to the generosity of donors, we’re able to help with rent, utilities, medical expenses, and making sure Christmas is taken care of for the kids," she said. "The impact is immediate, meaningful, and deeply felt by every family involved."

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"Holiday Wishes really warms our heart here at United Way. It shows how much can be accomplished when the community comes together. Holiday Wishes is just one small part of the work we do at United Way," Grasela said. "This initiative represents a glimpse into the year-round support we provide for families."

"Being part of this endeavor reinforces our commitment to lifting up local families, not just during the holidays, but every day," she said.

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Generosity Over the Years

Over the past 11 years, Holiday Wish Week has featured 63 families, raising over $385,000.

"The families we’ve supported this year, and over the past 11 years, have been incredibly grateful for the generosity shown by our community," Grasela said. "It means so much for them to know that someone is in their corner, especially during times when they may feel alone."

"We often hear from donors who have faced similar challenges to the families we serve, and moments like that remind us how deeply connected we all are," she said.

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Grateful For Giving

"This year, two families have even asked to personally call or write letters to their donors to express their gratitude," Grasela added.

"We’ve received countless thank-you texts and phone calls from the families, and we know there will be many joyful children this holiday season all thanks to the kindness of Fun 107 listeners," Grasela said.

"It’s always a pleasure to work with a team so dedicated to the SouthCoast," she said. "We look forward to an exciting 2026 as we continue working together to support even more families in our community."