Holiday Generosity Grows as Christmas Cheer Fund Pushes Toward Goal
MASON CITY, Iowa — Donations to the 2025 Christmas Cheer Fund continue to grow, with North Iowans — and supporters from across the country — stepping up to help neighbors in need this holiday season.
As of December 16, the campaign has raised $72,811.65, leaving $27,188.35 to reach its $100,000 goal.
Cheer Fund organizers say contributions have arrived from coast to coast, often tied to personal connections or memorial donations honoring loved ones with roots in North Iowa. The fund, which has served the community since 1927, continues to draw support from people who grew up in the area and make it a point to give back each year.
That long-standing tradition is one reason the Cheer Fund’s new all-volunteer board chose to revive the campaign in 2024, highlighting its lasting impact and community goodwill.
Several local fundraising events have added to the total this week. Fat Hill Brewing hosted a Christmas Trivia Contest earlier this week, raising $510 for the Cheer Fund during what organizers described as a festive and fun evening.
More fundraising is planned in the coming days. At Mason City High School, a staff member will soon take a pie to the face during the school’s Winter Festival. The event is being organized by Berlin Iles, a junior at MCHS and a member of the Cheer Fund board. Teachers competing for the honor include Dan Long, Kerri Foley, John Lee, Brian DeGabriele, and Ethan Pruisman, with the winner determined by monetary votes. Coverage of the event is expected next week.
Donation containers remain available at Grandma Sugar’s Cupcakery and Three on a Tree in Mason City. Additional opportunities to give will continue into the new year, with Fareway in Mason City sponsoring a “Round Up at the Register” campaign during the week of January 4.
Cheer Fund Board President Jane Reynolds says the community’s generosity has been inspiring and encourages continued support as the campaign pushes toward its goal.
Organizers ask whether North Iowans can conquer the $100,000 mark — and say a valiant effort is well underway.
