Toy Giveaway on December 20th looking bigger and better

(CHICAGO, IL – Dec. 1, 2025) That Harper Kid (THK) is thrilled to announce its 4th Annual Toy Giveaway on Friday, Dec. 20, 2025, from 12–4 p.m., at the Shine Bright Community Center, 8560 Cottage Grove. The nonprofit organization, founded in 2019 by Chicago’s very own pro basketball player Linnae Harper, educates, empowers, and uplifts the next generation of youth through mentorship, community engagement, and athletic development. Harper was nicknamed “That Harper Kid” by former Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who spotted her at a community basketball event and said, “Hey, aren’t you that Harper kid?”

Last year, the annual toy giveaway served more than 850 children and 400 parents during the holiday season. The 2025 event promises to be even bigger and brighter. No registration is required for this free event, but attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as gifts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Children must be present to receive gifts.

Attendees can expect:
• Free toys and gifts for children (ages 0–13)
• Complimentary family portrait photos
• Hot cocoa and holiday treats
• Fun, festive activities for the whole family

“We are committed to bringing joy and support to families in our community,” said Harper. “With the help of our generous partners, we hope to make this holiday season memorable for every child and family who attends.”

The public can donate to the event at www.thatharperkid.org/events.

Event partners include Raising Cane’s, JP Morgan, A Greater Good Foundation, You B4 Me, Wintrust Bank (Pullman and Trust locations), Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Discover.

“Like all of our THK programs, the 4th Annual Toy Giveaway bridges gaps between underserved communities and accessible resources,” said Harper. “Especially during the holidays, THK is committed to ensuring every child and family feels valued, seen, and heard.”

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About That Harper Kid
That Harper Kid is a Chicagoland nonprofit dedicated to uplifting children and families through community-driven events, charitable initiatives, and programs that foster hope, joy, and opportunity.

About Linnae Harper
Linnae Harper, affectionately deemed “That Harper Kid” by Mayor Rahm Emanuel, is a pro basketball player born and raised on the South Side of Chicago. A graduate of Whitney Young, Harper went on to play college basketball at the University of Kentucky and The Ohio State University. She has earned seven USA Junior Olympic medals, played in the WNBA—including for the Chicago Sky—and competed with Team USA’s 3-on-3 team. Earlier this month, she was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Harper uses her professional platform and unwavering passion for youth to lead philanthropic efforts through That Harper Kid, a 501(c)(3) based on Chicago’s South Side.