Red Stocking Fund

Request Gift

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Donate

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Volunteer

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“Making sure our neediest families are taken care of at Christmas”

Request Gift

The Red Stocking Fund provides Christmas gifts to local children in need living in:  Ottawa, Marseilles, Grand Ridge, Seneca, Sheridan, Oglesby, Streator, Ransom, Wedron and Utica (we regret that this fund does not cover the LaSalle or Peru areas.)

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: Friday, December 4, 2026

Please use the following form to suggest names of children ages 12 and younger.

Donate

Thank you for your kind heart in giving a donation to the Red Stocking Fund!  This is possible because of your generous gift.

Please complete the form below and share details about your donation.

If you have any questions about your donation, please contact Becky Keene (815-252-9962).

Volunteer

Volunteers play a very important role in this beautiful process of sharing gifts with children!

As a volunteer, there are 2 jobs to choose from:

Wrap Presents

If you’d like to help wrap presents, this will take place prior to delivery day (Saturday, December 12, 2026).  For more details, please contact Becky Keene (815-252-9962).

Deliver Presents

Gift delivery takes place on Saturday, December 12th at 7:30am.  Please drive to the Elks Club building (116 W. Jefferson Street, Ottawa, IL) and be ready to make some kids smile!

FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions.

Wrap Presents

What is Red Stocking?
A fund that local businesses and individuals donate to so gifts can be purchased for needy children, ages 0-12, in the Ottawa and Streator area. 
Who runs Red Stocking?
There is a Red Stocking Board that manages the finances. Ottawa Zonta Club does most of the legwork, with help from volunteers in the community.
Who can benefit from Red Stocking?
Children ages 0-12 in the Ottawa and Streator areas that have been nominated by a family member, friend, or other community member.
Who can benefit from Red Stocking?
Children ages 0-12 in the Ottawa and Streator areas that have been nominated by a family member, friend, or other community member.
How do I nominate someone?
Complete the form online through our website, or fill out a paper copy through the Daily Times newspaper and mail to our PO Box # 427
How can I help?
Please help in the way that you wish – donating funds, volunteering to wrap gifts, or volunteering to deliver gifts. You may read more information above.
What do the children get?
Two toys – usually a game and an individual toy. This is different for each age group as we try to match age interests and abilities. They also receive a stocking with smaller toys/gadgets and candy or cookies. Additionally, the family receives a ham and a bag of fruits to help celebrate the season.
Can I request specific items for my children?
No. We buy items in bulk in order to make the process smoother.
I noticed you didn't ask for sizes. Why not?
We do not provide clothing.
I have toys to donate - where do I bring them?
We do not accept toys or donations in this form. If you would like to help, a monetary donation can be sent to our PO Box 427
What areas do you serve?
We try to stay close to Ottawa and Streator areas. We have a limited area as we don’t want to run our volunteers too far away from the area on delivery day.
Where do I pick up my gifts?
Streator gifts can be picked up at Bruce Township Hall in Streator. Ottawa gifts may be picked up at the Elks Lodge, 116 W. Jefferson Street in Ottawa  IF you indicated you would be picking them up when submitting names. Otherwise, they will be delivered and an adult needs to be ready for delivery by 7:30 am on the delivery date.