College students with families are getting a helping hand for the holidays thanks to a special program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Little Blazer Wishes connects eligible student parents with sponsors from the campus and community, who anonymously fulfill the students’ wish lists. Gifts may include clothing, toys, books and household necessities and are individualized for each participating family.
Coordinated by the Office of Student and Family Engagement and launched in 2018, the Little Blazer Wishes program has served more than 500 families and nearly 1,000 children. In 2025, 300 children from 158 student families received holiday gifts provided by the program.
“While every applicant was supported in 2025, the growing number of student parents seeking assistance demonstrates an increasing need,” said Meredith Kahl, director of Student and Family Engagement in UAB’s Division of Student Affairs.
The program relies on support from UAB students, employees, alumni and campus partners who sponsor families or contribute to the Little Blazer Wishes Fund. Monetary donations help support families who do not receive a sponsor and provide additional items, including grocery gift cards, to participating student parents.
Parenting and/or pregnant UAB students who are enrolled for the fall 2026 semester are eligible, and they must be able to pick up the gifts between Dec. 9 and 18 on the UAB campus.