WBKR’s Christmas Wish closed out its 49th season by serving 1,912 local families, helping nearly 8,000 children and distributing more than 50,000 gifts — a reminder of both the need across Daviess County and the community support that continues to sustain the program.
Christmas Wish Director Barb Birgy said that level of impact was made possible by an outpouring of community involvement. Hundreds of volunteers logged more than 10,000 hours inside the program’s headquarters at Towne Square North, sorting donations, selecting gifts, and preparing packages for pickup. Restaurants, businesses, civic groups, churches, and individuals donated food, time, supplies, and financial support throughout the season.
“This season reminded us just how real the need is for so many families, and just how incredible our community can be,” Birgy said. “Every gift, donation, and act of kindness helped ease a burden and bring hope where it was needed most.”
Birgy said the program’s move into the former Big Lots location — more than 50,000 square feet of donated space — proved to be a game-changer, allowing Christmas Wish to expand operations and serve families more efficiently. Birgy credited Towne Square North ownership for helping make that space available and functional throughout the season.
Birgy said key community partners this year included Owensboro RV, DMC Graphics, Lampkin Land Wurx, Greenwell Chisholm Printing Company, Bako’s Party Rentals, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Kroger, Daviess County Pork Producers, Green River Appliance & Furniture, Santa for St. Jude, CRS One Source, Alexander & Company CPAs PSC, Extra Space Storage, SignPros, and Schrecker Supply Company.
She said local retailers also played a critical role by offering discounts that stretched donations further, including Five Below, Ollie’s, Kids 4 Good – Owensboro, Walgreens, Gabe’s, Bealls, Walmart, Dollar General, Mega Replay, Sam’s Club, and Kroger. Birgy also recognized FedEx, UPS, USPS, and Amazon drivers, whose daily deliveries kept the operation running behind the scenes.
The season also brought moments that highlighted the heart of the program. In one instance, Birgy said, a teenager requested an urn for her grandfather — who had raised her — and James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory immediately stepped in to donate one.
As Christmas Wish looks ahead to its milestone 50th season, organizers say the numbers tell only part of the story. What continues to define the program is a community willing to show up — year after year — to make sure no family feels forgotten during the holidays.
“Together, you proved that compassion is powerful,” Birgy said. “It was a whirlwind from start to finish, but with your help, it all came together beautifully. From donors and volunteers to fundraisers and behind-the-scenes helpers, every single effort mattered. You helped spread holiday magic far and wide, and we’re so grateful for each of you.”
