Riva Sharples | Editor
Christmas is brighter for 111 area children this year, thanks to the Alcester charity Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids.
In just its second year in existence, the charity has had incredible success, this year spreading Christmas cheer to children and families in nine area communities, including Alcester, Hudson, Hawarden, Ireton, Canton, Beresford, Akron, Westfield, and Volin.
“Each child represents a family supported and is a reminder of the impact that generosity and community spirit can have during the Christmas season,” said Lisa Hodgson, one of the founders of the organization. “This year marked significant growth for Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids. We were able to expand into several new communities and more than double the number of children we served compared to our inaugural year last year. This growth reflects the strong support of volunteers, donors, schools, and community partners, and it allowed us to bring the magic of Christmas to more children than ever before.”
A major partner in the success of Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids has been the Royal Ball, run by the Alcester-Hudson FCCLA members. This year’s ball raised more than $5,000, as well as soliciting dozens of new toys and items for kids.
“We truly believe the best people to pick out gifts for kids are kids themselves,” explains Hodgson. “That’s why admission to the Royal Ball fundraiser is one new toy, preferably valued at $20 or more. This allows us to gather a wide variety of age-appropriate and meaningful gifts that children will truly enjoy.”
In addition to the Royal Ball, area individuals and local businesses were instrumental this year in helping the charity thrive.
“This year, Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids raised over $8,000,” said Hodgson. “In addition to the $5,000 from the Royal Ball, remaining funds came from generous donations by local businesses and individuals. We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our communities, which allows us to continue bringing the magic of Christmas to children throughout the area.”
The process of bringing joy to kids at Christmas takes several months.
“Planning the Royal Ball begins shortly after the school year starts, as we partner with AHHS FCCLA members to help organize and promote the event,” explains Hodgson. “Following the Royal Ball in October, we take inventory of all donated toys and begin preparing for the next steps. Before Thanksgiving, letters are sent to area schools with a return deadline shortly before the holiday. This timeline allows us to match donated toys to children in need and identify any additional items that may be required. Many of the children we serve are also in need of clothing, which is primarily purchased using the funds raised through the Royal Ball and additional donations.”
With gifts selected and organized for each child and family, the charity then holds a community gift-wrapping day where volunteers wrap gifts in preparation for distribution.
“This process allows us to ensure each child receives thoughtful, personalized gifts while maintaining dignity, care, and efficiency throughout the entire program,” said Hodgson. “In addition, we were proud to partner with Heyl Truck Lines in Akron and POET Hudson by hosting Giving Trees at their locations. These partnerships provided another meaningful way for employees and community members to get involved and directly support children in need. The generosity shown through these Giving Trees played an important role in helping reach more families this Christmas season. “
There are many ways to get involved with Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids. Community members can support the organization by donating new toys, making monetary contributions, attending or sponsoring fundraising events such as the Royal Ball, or volunteering their time to help with gift wrapping. Local businesses and organizations are also encouraged to partner with us through initiatives like Giving Trees or event sponsorships.
“Every level of involvement helps us continue spreading the magic of Christmas and supporting children in our communities,” said Hodgson.
The heart of the Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids charity is rooted in personal experience, compassion, and a deep desire to give back, she admits.
“Santa himself grew up as a child in need,” she said. “He remembers firsthand the impact that generosity and kindness can have on a child’s life, especially during the holiday season. Because of the help he received while growing up, he has always felt called to give back in the same meaningful way to other children who may be facing similar challenges.”
Mrs. C shares that same heart for children. She was raised in a home where helping and adopting children in need was simply part of everyday life, she explains. From a young age, she learned the importance of caring for others and ensuring that every child feels loved, valued, and supported.
Although Santa and Mrs. C were unable to have children of their own, they felt strongly that their purpose was to serve children in another way. Out of that desire, the Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids charity was born – an organization founded on the belief that all children in need are their kids.
“We are incredibly thankful for our wonderful Board of Directors,” adds Hodgson. “These dedicated community members generously give their time, talents, and hearts to the organization and truly help make the magic happen. Their leadership, support, and commitment play a vital role in allowing Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids to continue growing and reaching more children each year. Today, the organization reflects their shared mission: to bring hope, dignity, and the magic of Christmas to children who need it most. What began as a personal calling has grown into a community effort, fueled by generosity, compassion and the belief that every child deserves to feel special during the holiday season.”
In 2026, Santa & Mrs. C’s Kids looks forward to continuing to grow and build on the momentum from this past year. Plans include strengthening partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations, expanding fundraising efforts such as the Royal Ball and Giving Trees, and reaching even more children and families in need.
As the organization grows, the focus will remain on thoughtful gift giving, community involvement, and ensuring every child served continues to experience the joy and magic of Christmas.