Kayla and Mara Winfrey need about 15 gallons of hot chocolate each year to meet demand during their annual fundraiser to benefit Toys for Tots. Their mother, Maureen Winfrey, is in charge of hot chocolate production during the event.
On Dec. 13, in their 21st annual hot chocolate sale, the sisters raised $9,500, topping last year’s total by $800 but not quite reaching the record $11,000 from 2022.
John and Nancy Beele were there to present a $300 check from the Wally Burns VFW Post. For a number of years, John Beele helped arrange the use of the Coldwell Banker office in downtown Flossmoor as a staging area for toys the Winfrey sisters purchased with their hot chocolate proceeds.
“We’ve got to support the girls. It’s the best hot chocolate,” John said. He noted the VFW Post had been supporting the project since it began when Kayla and Mara were aged 4 and 2.
The Homewood Police Department also pitched in. On Dec. 14 the department posted to its Facebook page a notice that officers donated $1,500 Kayla and Mara’s hot chocolate stand fund. The money was raised by officers’ annual No Shave November fundraiser.
In a email after the event, the sisters thanked everyone who contributed this year and over the years.
“Words can’t describe how grateful we are to have such supportive friends and family, and to live in a community that has supported us throughout the years,” they said. “When we started this stand 21 years ago, we never could have imagined the impact it would have. To everyone who has helped us, thank you immensely for supporting a 4 and 2 year old’s idea that has turned into a cherished tradition. So many children will have a special Christmas because of your kindness.”
