Hope Shows Up in Action
Each December, local families arrive at the Lausche Building at the Ohio State Fairgrounds with the promise that, despite hardship, Christmas can still be a day filled with joy. Behind every welcome and every carefully prepared station were more than 1,500 volunteers who served during Christmas Cheer making the event possible from start to finish. That spirit of compassion begins well before the doors open and continues through every step of the Christmas season.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas Cheer, community members collected toys through Angel Tree toy drives—shopping, donating, and giving with the hope of making Christmas brighter for children in need. Those gifts, gathered through countless acts of generosity, became part of the love and assistance offered throughout the event.
This Christmas, that commitment to service was reflected through a special partnership with Jaylen McClain and his teammates from the Ohio State football team. Through Jaylen’s Everyday Legends Foundation, a virtual Angel Tree toy drive helped provide gifts for many local households. This effort brought together donors, organizations, and student-athletes with one shared purpose: allowing children and families to experience the magic of Christmas morning.
Jaylen, along with teammates Eddrick Houston, Caleb Downs, and James Peoples, didn’t just contribute from afar. They volunteered at Christmas Cheer, carrying toys, assisting clients and welcoming guests with joy.
“I want people to feel supported. I want people to feel loved,” Jaylen shared.
Moments like these reflect the mission behind Christmas Cheer: people coming together to respond thoughtfully and walk alongside our neighbors in need.