Door County Secret Santa is once again partnering with community organizations and donors to help local families stay warm this winter.

Now in its second decade, the program supports households throughout the peninsula by covering heating bills during the coldest months.

Nominations come from local churches, schools, and social service agencies.For chosen households, payments are made directly to their heating providers, with volunteers delivering envelopes on Christmas Eve to notify recipients that their costs have been covered.

The Door County Secret Santa initiative began in 2011 with assistance for a single propane tank and has since grown dramatically. Last year alone, the program provided more than $66,000 in heating support to 88 families.

The effort relies entirely on community generosity. Donations can be made at any Nicolet National Bank branch or mailed to P.O. Box 161, Ellison Bay, WI 54210

Additional support comes from local fundraisers, including the annual Blues on the Bay festival in Ellison Bay and community drives such as Warm Hands, Warm Hearts organized by 100+ Women Who Care.

Door County Secret Santa remains a vital resource for families across the county, ensuring they have the heat they need to stay safe and warm throughout the winter.