Over 1,000 children were shopped for during this Summer Event! Towards the end, we were running low on some of the fun summer gifts for the children but as always God provides. Besides our volunteers who continue to bring in items they have or find on sale, the doorbell rings and Noonan Academy, Immanuel Lutheran, Mary's Circle of Faith United and Viking Hockey all help with a little here and there and we were able to finish off strong and provide great items to go along with the clothing, sandals, socks, hygiene, and laundry detergent. Praise the Lord for always sending our gifting angels.

We also had a chance to deliver some gift bags to a few schools last month. The joy in the children's faces was heart-warming. It was a beautiful day of being welcomed by the schools, meeting some of the students and even helping them open their gift bags. The children's faces were priceless and the hearing a bit about them, their familes and their lives helped brighten our day and help us further understand how important the very basics are for these children. We saw many Bombas socks and heard how much they appreciated the toothbrushes, the mini Jesus figurines and the birthday bags too!

Thank you to all our wonderful donors and supporters. Another shool year of providing for the children of My Joyful Heart is incredible and we have Jesus & YOU to thank!

Our next event is Back to School and we will begin prepping for that soon. The event will begin in July and we would love the help collecting school supplies. You can download a collection sheet here of what would be the most helpful or call us (815.806.1700).

Beginning in 2026, there’s also a new way your generosity may go even further. Even if you take the standard deduction, you may be able to deduct charitable gifts of up to $1,000 (individuals) or $2,000 (married couples filing jointly). This “above-the-line” deduction means your giving can reduce your taxable income in addition to your standard deduction. It’s a simple way to make an immediate impact, and receive a benefit in return.

Reminder for our young volunteers (aged 13+) that our summer volunteer hours are Mon-Thurs from 9:30-1:30. You must have your parent/guardian register you as a volunteer first and make sure to consult the calendar to make sure we're open before you head over.

Hidden Treasures Sale | May 14-16 from 9am-2pm

Come find some really great treasures on household items, gifts, candles, books, decorative items (including pillows) and so much more. Any of those college kiddos needing some basic household items or decor, they'll find a super deal during this sale. Come help us clear our little space and turn items we don't give to the children into hygiene we do give.

Bingo Night | June 6 at 7pm

St. Peter's UCC in Frankfort is hosting a Bingo night on Saturday June 6th at 7pm. You're welcome to join, bring cash and pay at the door. Thank you St. Peter's!

Trivia Night Success!

Congratulations Overthinkers on your second Trivia Nigh Win! What a fun night with 19 teams competing over three rounds with a little fun thrown in between. Thank you to Local 597 Pipefitters for welcoming us again this year and to our sponsors Providence Bank & Trust, Ozinga, Be Well Chiropractic and to our donors Gary's Catering, and Beccy Bakes! We appreciate your help providing the basics to local children in need. 👊🏆🥇

Mental Health Wellness Fair & Walk | May 30th

There are so many fabulous non-profits helping so many people in the South Suburbs. We were a part of this event last year and grateful for the positivity and work that goes into making this day important for so many!

Walmart Online Round up Program

Every time you shop online at Walmart, you can round up your total and donate that round up amount to My Joyful Heart. Just click the button below, select “round up,” sign in to your Walmart account and choose the Select this Charity button. Then, each time you make a purchase, you’ll have the option to round up and 100% of your round up is donated to My Joyful Heart. Every penny counts!

We do have a registry as well to help provide for the children who ask for food as an immediate need. Each event we try to either give them a gift card for food or a bag of non-perishable groceries. This registry can be also be found using the same button link above.

A million thank you's to everyone that helps us with donations, drives, and prayers each week. So many beautiful blessings unfold here! Pop over to our social media to catch a glimpse of the joy and impact (links below).