Big Hearts of Fox Valley spreads holiday cheer to hundreds of families in need
The spirit of giving was alive and well in St. Charles as Big Hearts of Fox Valley wrapped up its 12th year of providing holiday support to families in need across St. Charles Unit District 303.
This year, the organization delivered Christmas gifts to 597 children representing 250 families, marking one of its most impactful seasons to date.
Since its founding in 2014, Big Hearts of Fox Valley has grown from a small grassroots effort into a signature community initiative, powered by hundreds of donors, volunteers, and local partners who work together to bring dignity and joy to families facing financial hardship.
A season of generosity
Community support once again played a crucial role in the program’s success. Individuals, local businesses, churches, service groups, and District 303 schools shopped personalized wish lists to ensure every child received 5 to 10 new gifts, including winter essentials, clothing, toys, and other items chosen specifically for them.
The organization’s Holiday Toy Drive added an abundance of toys and teen items, giving each child an average of 15 gifts this year. Monetary contributions further ensured that every wish list was fully completed, even when specific items needed to be sourced directly by Big Hearts.
Two local philanthropic groups — 100 Women Who Care St. Charles and the Hope and Grace Foundation — provided additional support, funding $50 grocery store gift cards for every participating family.
Annual Santa’s Drive-Thru
On Dec. 2, Big Hearts of Fox Valley hosted its much-anticipated Santa’s Drive-Thru pickup event. Families arrived during scheduled time slots, driving through a cheerful, holiday-themed route staffed by volunteers and supported by the St. Charles fire and police departments.
More than 250 families were greeted warmly and guided through the pickup process, receiving gifts for children from birth through age 18. With an average of one car per minute, the event remains one of the most efficient large-scale gift distribution efforts in the region.
Celebrating community impact
“Every family who came through our doors this year felt the support of an entire community standing behind them,” said Jennifer Mobley, executive director and co-founder of Big Hearts of Fox Valley. “This program is proof that when people come together, they can truly change the holidays — and lives — for children right here in D303.”
Big Hearts of Fox Valley is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students and families in need within St. Charles Unit District 303. As an official District 303 charity partner, Big Hearts provides year-round support through programs including the Christmas Gift Sponsorship Program, Big Hearts Throughout the Year, and Back-to-School initiatives.
For more information or to contribute, visit www.bigheartsfv.org.