A Summer Kickoff for Holiday Magic

How Our Christmas In July Toy Drive Is KickStarting One Of Our Biggest Programs: A Very Merry Dinner

While most people are soaking up the summer sun, we’ve already been busy preparing for one of our biggest programs of the year, A Very Merry Dinner. This heartwarming holiday event brings joy and personalized gifts to over 800 children across 12 school districts, many of whom may not otherwise experience the magic of Christmas. To make this effort possible, we have to start planning months in advance, and that is where our toy drives play a crucial role.

Throughout the month of July, our community came together to help us get a head start. With your generosity, we collected a wide range of our most requested toys and games that will soon be wrapped and delivered to children who need them most. The early support we receive through the Christmas in July Toy Drive helps us ensure every child at A Very Merry Dinner feels seen, valued, and celebrated.

With the rising cost of everyday essentials, more families are feeling the pressure this year. Inflation has made it harder for many to afford basic needs, let alone provide a festive holiday for their children. That’s why programs like A Very Merry Dinner are so important. By stepping in and helping fill the gap, we’re able to bring joy and relief to families who are doing their best to get by.

We are especially grateful to the local businesses and community partners who hosted donation sites this year. Thank you to Gionino’s Pizzeria, Laziza Restaurant, Missing Mountain Brewing Company, Twin Lakes Golf Course, and the Kent Lanes Volleyball Tournament for stepping up and making a difference. Your support is a key reason why this program continues to grow.

As we look ahead to the holiday season, we are filled with gratitude and excitement. A Very Merry Dinner is more than just an event. It is a celebration of kindness, community, and hope. The early support we receive through the Christmas in July Toy Drive helps us ensure that every child will have the chance to experience the Christmas they’ve asked for – one full of magic, warmth and wonder. 

If you or someone you know is ever interested in hosting a toy drive or giving back to the community, we have many different programs that we need help with at all times of the year! Feel free to reach out at any time to: info@bencurtisfoundation.org

Become a Champion

Do you want to get involved in the fight against the childhood hunger in Northeast Ohio?

Get in touch with our team. We are always in need of volunteers, donors, sponsors and community partners to help us fulfill our mission of alleviating child hunger in our community.