PAPER ANGELS 2026
Making the holidays a little brighter
Each year our community embraces the people in our programs by adopting a wish list (or more) during the holidays. These wish lists are created by the clients we serve and filled by the members of our community, ensuring that every family has a few presents under the tree.
Please note: Gifts must be dropped off at the location where the list(s) were requested. For example, TC gifts go to TC, and HS gifts go to HS.
The Details
What is Paper Angels?
For over 20 years, Paper Angels has helped ensure every family served by Child & Family Services has gifts under their Christmas tree. Through this heartfelt campaign, generous community members “adopt” wish lists from children and families, filling them from their own hearts and pockets.
Knowing that someone they’ve never met cares enough to brighten their holiday brings comfort, love, and hope — kindness that’s often paid forward in beautiful ways.
Paper Angels has been generously sponsored by WTCM since the very beginning. The idea was born when Jack O’Malley, inspired by Jimmy Wayne’s song “Paper Angels”—a reflection on the singer’s experiences in foster care—brought the concept to CFS. From that moment, a lasting partnership was formed.
Last year, over 600 wish lists were fulfilled thanks to the incredible generosity of WTCM listeners and the CFS community. Together, we’ve kept the spirit of giving alive for two decades — and we’re just getting started.
Campaign Kicks Off
November 9 - Campaign officially begins. Wish Lists have been gathered by case managers for clients and are ready to be filled. Donors may request Wish Lists beginning November 5.
Traverse City Details:
December 5 - Drop off day at the CFS office from 9:30 am - 3:00 pm (3785 Veterans Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684).
Please note: Gifts must be dropped off at the location where the list(s) were requested. We will only be accepting gifts for TC lists
Harbor Springs Details:
December 4 - Drop off day at the Harbor Springs office from 9:00 am-3:30 pm (3434 M-119 Suite F, Harbor Springs MI 49740)
Please note: Gifts must be dropped off at the location where the list(s) were requested. We will only be accepting gifts for TC lists
Other Ways to Get Involved
Not a shopper?
We're always grateful for monetary donations! Your support helps us supplement lists, shop for kids who come into care after drop-off day, and buy gifts that don't show up. It also lets us celebrate birthdays, reward great report cards, and bring a little joy to children throughout the year.
Click below to donate to the “Angel Fund” and make a difference today!
Volunteer
Email us at paperangels@cfs3L.org to get involved.
Click "Learn More" to explore other volunteer opportunities!
