What We Do

From Christmas to Career Opportunity Funds

Supporting children and families in Benton County

Committed to Our Community

Every year, Sharing & Caring supports thousands of children and families across Benton County through holiday assistance, career training, scholarships, and essential resources. Last year alone, Sharing & Caring impacted thousands of lives across Benton County—supporting 4,386 children and 1,181 families through Hope at Christmas, while investing $125,000 in career training and certifications for 1,397 high school students.

Making the Holidays Brighter

Hope at Christmas

Hope at Christmas ensures children in Benton County experience the joy of the season—without families having to choose between essentials and celebration.

Through this program, families receive holiday gifts, winter essentials, and support during one of the most financially stressful times of the year.

Families apply online and attend in-person interviews each fall.

Community members can get involved by:

  • Applying for assistance
  • Participating in Adopt & Shop
  • Donating gifts or essentials
  • Volunteering during the interview and distribution days

 

Who Qualifies for Assistance?

To receive support through Hope at Christmas, families must:

  • Be a Benton County resident
  • Have children ages 0–18 (pregnant mothers qualify)
  • Receive SNAP benefits (automatic qualification)

Families may only receive Christmas assistance from one organization. Applications are cross-checked with other community partners. Receiving assistance from multiple organizations may result in denial and ineligibility for up to two years.

 

September 15
Applications Open

Families can begin applying online for Hope at Christmas and uploading the required documentation.

October 1
Applications Under Review

Our team and volunteers begin reviewing applications and determining eligibility for assistance.

October 15
Interviews Begin

Conditionally approved families can begin attending their mandatory in-person interview.

October 25
Application Deadline

The final day to submit your online application and be considered for this year’s Hope at Christmas program.

October 31
Interview Deadline

All mandatory family interviews must be completed by this date to remain eligible for assistance.

December 11
Distribution Day

Approved families will pick up gifts and essential items at the Benton County Fairgrounds and prepare to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones.

Opening Doors to the Future

Career Opportunity Fund

The Career Opportunity Fund helps Benton County students access career-focused education, certifications, and workforce training programs—especially those who may not be college-bound.

Since launching in 2016, this initiative has supported students pursuing vocational training, healthcare certifications, construction programs, and other industry-recognized credentials. In 2024 alone, we awarded 1,426 scholarships, more than doubling the impact from the previous year.

Our goal is simple: ensure every student—regardless of financial background—has access to education, opportunity, and a clear path forward.

Your Support Fuels Every Program

Be Part of the Impact

Every coat donated. Every scholarship funded. Every Christmas gift given. It all starts with community support. When you give to Sharing & Caring, you’re investing directly in Benton County children and families—today and for the future.

Upcoming Events

Our Year at a Glance

Sharing & Caring of Benton County serves children and families through year-round nonprofit programs, community initiatives, fundraising events, and volunteer opportunities. From Hope at Christmas to the Career Opportunity Fund, we provide essential support, education assistance, and local resources that strengthen Northwest Arkansas families. Explore our programs and discover how you can donate, volunteer, or partner to support children in Benton County.

February 1-28
Annual Coat Drive

Help us collect new & gently used coats, hats, gloves, & warm blankets to keep our community cozy. 

Apirl 9
NWA Gives

Inspire generosity & help us fundraise with ONE epic day of giving!

June 1-30
Personal Care Drive
Help us collect essential & other personal care items for teens in need.
June 25
Sharing & Paring

A wine pairing fundraiser featuring Walmart special guests & an exclusive atmosphere.

September 9-10
Annual Golf Tournament & 19TH Hole Par-Tee

Our biggest (award-winning!) annual fundraiser: TWO golf tournaments, dinner auction, & more.

October 15-31
Hope At Christmas: Family Interviews

Interview families applying for our Christmas assistance program.

October 15
Adopt & Shop Deadline

Last day apply to Adopt & Shop for a child in need at Christmas!

November 1-30
Stuffed Animal & Gift Wrap Drive

Donate or collect new stuffed animals & rolls of gift wrap.

November 30 - December 8
Distribution Day Prep

2 weeks. 300+ volunteers. 34 Christmas music playlists. It takes a village (read: small army) to organize gifts & necessities for over 3,000 kids!

December 11
Distribution Day

The GRAND FINALE: Families in our Christmas program receive their children’s gifts, food, & household essentials- a year of hard work brought to life, reflected in their joy.