ALPENA — United Way of Northeast Michigan kicked off Northeast Michigan’s annual Christmas Wish List on Tuesday. A holiday tradition for decades, the Christmas Wish List matches hundreds of children’s specific gift requests with generous donors who agree to fulfill the Christmas Wish List received.

The youth in the program are identified by school success workers and their needs and the list is submitted by parents. Most gifts are for basic needs such as clothing, bedding, household items, and food.

Donors wishing to be matched with a youth or a family in need can contact Catherine Abraham at 586-703-4019. She is handling the match process, and is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

For more information or to make a financial donation, can contact United Way of Northeast Michigan at 989-354-2221 or go to www.unitedwaynemi.org and designate your contribution to the Christmas Wish List.

Gifts must be received the week of Monday, Nov. 29 through Friday, Dec. 3.

Please make sure that a child’s Gift Wish List is secured before purchasing any gifts. Cash donations to the Christmas Wish List are also needed to provide for the purchase of unfulfilled gifts or food. Cash donations are welcome at any time.

Donations by check can be mailed to United Way of Northeast Michigan, 108 Water Street, Alpena, MI 49707.