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As Chicago prepares for the holiday season, local organizations and leaders are stepping up to bring joy to families in need. From toy drives to winter gear giveaways, these events highlight the spirit of generosity in the city. Below is a chronological listing of events happening this December.
Ongoing
Find Food in Your Community
The Greater Chicago Food Depository’s network of more than 850 food pantries and programs throughout Chicago and Cook County provides food to anyone in need. To locate a pantry or soup kitchen in your neighborhood, visit ChicagosFoodBank.org and click on the Find Food button. Enter your address or neighborhood to view a detailed list of nearby food access programs, including locations, dates, times, and contact information.
Saturday, December 21, 2024
Pastor Michael Eaddy’s Toy, Computers, and Bike Giveaway
- Time: 10:30 AM
- Location: The People’s Church of Harvest C.O.G.I.C, 3570 W. 5th Ave, Chicago, IL
For the 34th year, Pastor Michael Eaddy and First Lady Christine Eaddy will lead a massive giveaway, distributing toys, computers, and bikes to over 500 children from families impacted by inflation. The event aims to spread holiday cheer and alleviate financial burdens for Chicago’s West Side residents.
Chicago Survivors Coats & Cocoa
- Time: 11 AM – 2 PM
- Location: City of Praise Church, 3250 W. 60th St, Chicago, IL
Partnering with 1-800-TruckWreck, Chicago Survivors will provide winter clothing, hot cocoa, arts and crafts, and karaoke for members of the community. Over 150 coats, hats, gloves, and scarves will be distributed to those in need.
Miracle on 63rd Street
- Time: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Location: Englewood Breakroom POP Plaza, 1539 W. 63rd St, Chicago, IL
This Englewood tradition, hosted by Englewood Branded and Branding Englewood Non-Profit, returns with activities like ice skating, horseback riding, and Christmas tree decorating. Over 3,000 toys and 500 coats will be given to children, with support from community partners, including NBA legend Baron Davis’s Black Santa initiative.
The Gifts from the Heart Christmas Toy Drive
- Time: 4 PM – 7 PM
- Location: Rebar, 410 N. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL
Dr. Princess Lomax, Stacia Mac, Ronneshia Foota, and Jennifer Nashae lead this toy drive to benefit women and children in shelters across Chicago. Attendees are encouraged to donate toys, clothing, and toiletries. The event continues the organizers’ year-round efforts to uplift underserved communities.
Holiday Food Distribution (Lower West Side)
- Time: 10 AM – 1 PM
- Location: Lower West Side
Another distribution by the Greater Chicago Food Depository, offering holiday meals to families in need.
Sunday, December 22, 2024
Snowflakes and Blessings Toy and Turkey Giveaway
- Time: 1 PM – 3 PM
- Location: Kenwood Academy High School, 5015 S. Blackstone Ave, Chicago, IL
Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Bright Star Community Outreach are joining forces for this annual holiday event. Over 300 families are expected to receive new toys and turkeys as part of the celebration. Families must register to participate by visiting BrightStarCommunityOutreach.com.
Monday, December 23, 2024
Holiday Food Distribution (North Lawndale)
- Time: 10 AM – 12 PM
- Location: North Lawndale
The final food distribution before Christmas, aiming to ensure every family can enjoy a holiday meal.
These events underscore Chicago’s resilience and community spirit, as residents and organizations come together to provide warmth and joy to those in need. Whether it’s a toy giveaway, a hot meal, or a new winter coat, these acts of kindness remind us of the power of giving during the holiday season.