Christine Birhanzl, Joe Kraft, and Nick DeWitt are coming together this season with one shared goal: to give back to the community in a way that brings real joy to children and families who need it most. Through a toy donation effort rooted in compassion and care, their work helps ensure that hundreds of children experience the simple but powerful feeling of being remembered during the holidays. Each toy represents more than a gift—it’s a reminder to a child that they are seen, valued, and supported.

This year, more than 600 toys will be distributed thanks to the continued generosity of Dave Lodder and the group Christine affectionately calls “Lodder’s Angels.” For the past 11 years, Dave and his fellow donors have given for no other reason than to help others, returning year after year with the same quiet commitment to service. A longtime partner of SLIM (Saving Lives In Ministry)—an organization founded by Christine Birhanzl—Dave’s dedication aligns deeply with SLIM’s mission to fill critical gaps in the community. From helping individuals obtain IDs so they can access treatment, to street outreach that connects people to care, to providing food, blankets, and basic necessities for those living outdoors, SLIM focuses on meeting people where they are and offering support when it’s needed most.

Alongside Christine, Joe Kraft, Director of Facilities at Community Health Alliance, and Nick DeWitt, Facilities Technician, are helping ensure these toys reach children across the community. On Saturday, December 20th, toys will be distributed at Sojourner Recovery Services, followed by neighborhood deliveries on Sunday, including local trailer parks, bringing holiday cheer directly to families who may otherwise go without.

At its heart, this effort reflects the power of generosity and collective care. These aren’t just toys—they’re moments of hope, happiness, and reassurance. For one child, a single toy can mean the world. And together, through kindness and collaboration, this group is showing that when neighbors step up for one another, even the smallest acts can create lasting holiday memories and remind families that they are not alone during the season that matters most.

For more information about our outreach programs, please refer to our Community Health and Outreach page.