The holiday season can be a troubling time for struggling children and their caregivers, alike. The children wonder if they will go hungry over the next few weeks, while their peers celebrate with large family feasts and excitedly wait to open the colorfully-wrapped gifts picked just for them. Caregivers of those children dread explaining to their children why they are not getting any gifts this year; that they did nothing wrong and are not being punished.
Those stories of heartbreak during the holidays are just a few reasons why WIRC-Community Action Agency (WIRC) started the Project Santa program. Starting October 1, WIRC officials are taking applications for the 2025 program season.
Project Santa empowers caregivers to give their children gifts and clothing during the holiday season, when they otherwise could not afford to do so themselves. Each child who qualifies receives approximately $125 worth of gifts and winter clothing, based on their wish list. Gifts are provided to caregivers unwrapped, so they have a greater part in the gift-giving process and can distribute the items to their kids based on their family’s culture and traditions.
To be considered, the household must meet each of these criteria: (1) The children listed in the application are age 18 or younger and their primary residence is that household’s address; (2) The household is located in Hancock, Henderson, or McDonough County in Illinois; and (3) The household’s total income is within program limits.
Program income limits are based at 200% of the federal poverty level, and represent gross income totals before taxes and deductions. The income tiers are as follows: Two-person households can make $3,525 or less per month; Three-person households can make $4,442 or less per month; Four-person households can make $5,358 or less per month; and Five-person households can make $6,275 or less per month. For households with six or more individuals, add $917 for each additional person.
There are several ways families can apply: (1) Online at https://wirpc.org/projectsanta/; (2) Calling the Macomb office at 309-837-2997; (3) Starting an online chat at https://wirpc.org/, or (4) Emailing projectsanta@wirpc.org to schedule a 15-minute intake appointment in-person or by phone.
Applications are due to WIRC by Friday, October 31, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, due to the timing and logistics of this popular program.
WIRC officials say this program is special because it is supported financially by the community, not grants.
“Project Santa is funded entirely by donations given by people and organizations in our community,” said Jamie Roth, Community Services & Public Relations Director. “People of western Illinois have big hearts, and we love their enthusiasm and passion for helping children and families in need through this program.”
To volunteer or donate, visit https://wirpc.org/projectsanta/ or call Nickie at 309-837-2997.
WIRC-Community Action Agency is a nonprofit that helps people and communities in multiple western Illinois counties. For more information about their social and community development services, find their pages on social media, visit their website at wirpc.org, or call their Macomb office at 309-837-2997. WIRC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.