Poshard Foundation Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway Provided Toys to 700 Area Children

Published on December 12, 2024

Social service agencies across Southern Illinois visited the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children at John A. Logan College this past week for one of the largest Christmas toy giveaways in the region.  Over two thousand brand-new toys and gifts were distributed to approximately 700 abused, abandoned, and neglected children throughout 20 counties in Southern Illinois.

Ameren Illinois partnered with The Poshard Foundation. Ameren has provided funding for gifts in the past and, in recent years, has contributed $5000 annually toward the project. This year and last year, it generously raised that amount to $10,000.

Agency caseworkers identify the children receiving gifts with the Poshard Foundation.

“Many thanks to our individual donors and faithful volunteers who work diligently on this event including the Carterville Lions Club,” said Jo Poshard.

Phyllis McCowen, Poshard volunteer and head of the Christmas project, said, “This is the favorite part of my job at the Foundation.  Shopping for toys for kids who otherwise would have nothing under the tree makes my Christmas.”