Each holiday fundraising season is a pivotal time when it comes to raising money for the Santa Fund for Schoolkids. During the most recent 2024-2025 holiday season, which takes place from Thanksgiving until mid-January, we were able to raise almost $260,000, which far surpassed our goal of $225,000! This amount, $256,454.09, is the most ever raised in a single year for the Santa Fund, which is an amazing accomplishment.
The additional funds raised this season will directly help that many more local students and their families in need. Through the Santa Fund, school officials like counselors and teachers are able to identify students who need basic supplies and provide them with redemption vouchers for local stores like Marshalls and TJ Maxx. These supplies include essential items like clothing, shoes, backpacks, eyeglasses, notebooks, virtual learning tools, and more. All of this is done in an effort to ensure children have the basic necessities covered, so they can arrive school and focus on their education.
Our CEO and President Ravi Respeto said: “Over $250,000 will directly benefit low-income families, allowing us to meet the critical needs of children in our community. These funds will ensure that hundreds of kids receive the necessary resources to excel academically and personally, helping to alleviate some of the financial strain on their families.”
Adding a special sentiment to exceeding this year’s goal is the fact that it also happened to be the Santa Fund’s 130th anniversary. Establish in 1894, the Santa Fund is a collaborative effort between United Way of Greater Charlottesville, The Daily Progress, and WINA Radio.
While the holiday season is the key time for fundraising for the Santa Fund, supporters are able to donate at any time of year. To do so, you can donate online or mail a check to:
Santa Fund for Schoolkids
200 Garrett St. Suite I
Charlottesville, VA 22902