25CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The holiday season at Cunningham Children’s Home is alive with joy, generosity, and hope, as students and staff alike celebrate the season with festive decorations, special activities, and meaningful programming. Thanks to the ongoing support of families, volunteers, and community organizations, Christmas at Cunningham has become a time of connection, comfort, and celebration for the youth and families it serves.

Overwhelming generosity fills Cunningham with gifts

Gifts have been arriving in abundance at Cunningham Children’s Home over the past several weeks, sparking smiles and excitement among students. Local businesses, churches, families, and organizations contributed a wide array of presents, while dedicated volunteers wrapped each gift to ensure every child received something special.

The support has been extraordinary, providing more than just tangible items. Staff say the outpouring of community generosity helps children feel seen, valued, and loved, reinforcing the true spirit of the season.

Festive atmosphere transforms the campus

Cunningham’s campus has been aglow with holiday decorations and time-honored traditions. The chapel Christmas tree sparkles with Chrismons handmade by students—Christian symbols representing joy and the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Volunteers from the University of Illinois Beta Alpha Psi team and the Kiwanis Club of Champaign-Urbana helped decorate the chapel tree and the Spiritual Life Center, creating a magical, welcoming atmosphere.

The Wenzel family continued its 10-year tradition of decorating the main Christmas tree in the foyer of the Spiritual Life Center, spreading warmth, peace, and joy for all who visit the campus. These efforts, along with countless volunteer contributions, make Cunningham a truly festive and heartwarming place during the holidays.

Kids’ Generosity Shop teaches the joy of giving

Cunningham’s Kids’ Generosity Shop offered students at CIRCLE Academy and residential programs the opportunity to pick meaningful gifts for family and friends. Volunteers from Altrusa International, Tri Delta Alumnae – Champaign Urbana, and the Delta chapter at UIUC helped stock the shop and guided students in making thoughtful selections.

The experience teaches children the joy of giving and responsibility while providing a hands-on way to celebrate the season. Staff note that the shop demonstrates the Cunningham philosophy that “it takes a village to raise a child,” with the holiday season highlighting that village in full force.

Gingerbread Bash combines fun and reflection

Chaplain Kate hosted a Gingerbread Bash for residential youth, blending creativity with reflection on the Christmas story. Children built gingerbread mangers, enjoyed treats, and reflected on God’s promise of hope and peace, fulfilled in the gift of Jesus Christ.

The event offered a calm, meaningful pause during the busy holiday season, allowing students to engage in fellowship, fun, and reflection. Staff emphasized the importance of such programs in teaching youth about the deeper meaning of Christmas.

Santa and friends spread cheer across campus

A visit from Santa was a highlight for Cunningham’s residential youth. This year, Santa was joined by Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, and playful elves, adding extra excitement and laughter to the festivities. Children enjoyed cookies, games, and stories, creating lasting memories.

The visit reinforced the joy of the season while offering a moment of connection and fun for youth in Cunningham’s care.

CIRCLE family holiday parties celebrate students and families

CIRCLE Academy programs in Urbana and Rossville hosted annual family holiday parties, where students’ families enjoyed meals, entertainment, and gifts from Santa based on student wish lists. Laughter, music, and holiday cheer filled the rooms, making the events a highlight of the season.

Staff noted that the celebrations provide a meaningful way for students to engage with their families and experience the joy of community during the holidays.

Jingle Jam wraps up the holiday festivities

Chaplain Kate’s new twist on the annual residential Christmas Program, the Jingle Jam, brought Cunningham youth together for games, music, and chaplain-approved fun while sharing the story of the greatest gift. The event concluded with prayers and recognition for all Cunningham students, past, present, and future.

Staff say the program lifts spirits, fosters togetherness, and emphasizes the hope and joy at the heart of the season, making it a memorable experience for every student in Cunningham’s care.