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Big Hearts of Fox Valley helping to provide winter coats to local children

Big Hearts of Fox Valley has grown way beyond their wildest dreams.

It all started when the Mobley family (Minor, Jennifer, Ethan, and Nicole) first brainstormed ways to reach local families during the holiday season.

They knew firsthand that not all families had the ability to buy presents for their children and they wanted to find a way to help.

Seven years later, with help from their board of directors, executive committee, St. Charles Unit District 303 staff, and a generous, supportive community filled with such big hearts, they now reach hundreds of families living within St. Charles and portions of Wayne, Wasco, Elburn, West Chicago, South Elgin, Campton Hills, and unincorporated Kane County.

2020 looked a bit different from years past.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, they were not able to have their annual gift-wrapping party. They still worked tirelessly to meet the needs of families who live within the boundaries of District 303 who needed a little extra support at Christmas time.

Five hundred and sixty-two children's Christmas wish lists were filled by community members.

Another change for 2020 was that Big Hearts added a $50 grocery store gift card to each family's bag.

Being a small business owner, they understand the impact COVID-19 has had on the community. They also gave a board game to each family in efforts to enjoy each other away from electronics.

Donations also fund their new initiative, Big Hearts Throughout the Year. This program helps families in need with clothing and necessities outside of the Christmas season. Confidentiality is a priority, so as with the Christmas program, District 303 social workers are the main point of contact.

With extreme weather conditions, there has been a big increase in kids needing warm winter coats. Big Hearts recently had a coat drive to collect new adult sized coats for older kids.

Big Hearts of Fox Valley is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run solely by volunteers and relies solely on donations which can be made right on their website.

Donations raised help to fund the Big Hearts "Throughout the Year" program, to buy toys and clothing and last-minute items to add to wish-list bags and allow them to take advantage of winter clearance items.

Big Hearts of Fox Valley is extremely grateful and humbled by the outpouring of time and support that community members including city officials, local police and fire departments have bestowed upon them and their dream:

To make a difference in their own community by brightening the lives of local children affected by financial hardship within District 303 boundaries at Christmas time and throughout the year.

Visit www.bigheartsfv.org to make a donation or to learn more about their programs and volunteer opportunities.

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