The Division of Student Affairs is thrilled to announce the return of Little Blazer Wishes 2023, an initiative aimed at anonymously providing gifts and support to UAB parenting students and their families who may struggle to fulfill their children's holiday wish lists. This program, which significantly alleviates stress and financial challenges for students with dependents, invites the community to join in making the holiday season brighter for these families.

In 2022, the program successfully sponsored 136 UAB parenting students; this year, the number of applications has surged. By participating in Little Blazer Wishes, supporters can contribute to providing clothing, supplies, and enjoyable gifts, offering a reprieve to students facing the dual pressures of exams and the holiday season.

Individuals, organizations, offices, and departments are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the holidays by sponsoring families. Detailed information about each family, including the number of family members, children's ages, and specific gift requests, will be provided during the sponsorship process.

Interested parties can complete the form here to sponsor a family through Little Blazer Wishes. For offices, departments, or groups sponsoring families collectively, one designated individual should select the families on behalf of the group, serving as the primary liaison between the Little Blazer Wishes program and the sponsoring entity. All gifts must be submitted to the Off-Campus Student Lounge by Thursday, November 30, 2023.

Feel free to extend the holiday cheer by sharing information about the program with friends, co-workers, and family within and beyond the UAB community.

For those unable to purchase specific items for families but still wishing to contribute, the UAB Division of Student Affairs has established the Little Blazer Wishes Fund. Donations to this fund will be used to fulfill the needs of all students participating in the program, including gift cards to grocery stores and retail establishments. To donate, visit this page.

For a glimpse into the heartwarming moments of Little Blazer Wishes 2023, visit this link. For inquiries, please reach out to Meredith Kahl at mkahl@uab.edu.

Your support is crucial in making the UAB Little Blazer Wishes program successful and spreading joy to our university community during the holiday season.