2026 Shawnee County Christmas Bureau Intake

About this event

The Shawnee County Christmas Bureau is an annual United Way of Kaw Valley tradition that relies on members of our community to make the holiday season brighter for our Shawnee County neighbors in need. United Way of Kaw Valley connect thousands of individuals and families to a holiday meal and gifts by matching them with local agencies or community “adopters.”

If you would like to apply to receive help from the United Way Christmas Bureau in Shawnee County:

* You must live in Shawnee County.

* All people living at the same address must apply as one household.

* Read the information on the Intake Flyer to see if you meet the income requirements for the program. You will have to show proof of income when you come to sign up.

* Bring your required documents to one of our four intake sessions (see dates below). You can also bring your completed form with you for faster service. Our intake volunteers will help you and answer any questions.

You will be matched with an adopter in late November or early December. Your adopter will contact you.

Applications are now available to download or print at https://www.uwkawvalley.org/christmasbureau. You can fill out your application before coming to the intake center for faster service on one of our four intake dates. There are no electronic/digital applications. We will verify your household income.

2026 Intake Dates

Monday, November 2, 2026, 10 am to 7 pm

Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 10 am to 7 pm

Thursday, November 5, 2026, 10 am to 7 pm

Saturday, November 7, 10 am to 2 pm (FINAL DAY OF INTAKE. NO LATE APPLICATIONS ARE ACCEPTED.)

Intake takes place at the Johnston Community Center in the Echo Ridge neighborhood. The address is 2021 SE Market. The center is just southwest of the Topeka Housing Authority office. Please note that all intake dates are during the same week this year.