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GODFREY - The community can once again help families in need through the Christmas in July lunch and raffle.
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From 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Freer Auto Body in Godfrey, Christmas in July invites community members to enjoy a sloppy joe lunch for a donation and buy $10 raffle tickets for the chance to win major prizes. All proceeds go back to Community Christmas, a local campaign that delivers toys, clothing and more to families in need during the holiday season.
“The community makes this happen,” said Margaret Freer. "There is no greater gift than that of love, and that is what this event is all about. So many will experience Christmas because of everyone’s efforts."
The Christmas in July fundraiser was started in 2008 by 5-year-old Taylor Freer and her sister Lily in honor of their late uncle. This inspired the Freer family to get involved in the Community Christmas initiative with annual events like this. Last year, Freer Auto Body’s fundraising efforts raised $76,000 for Community Christmas.
Margaret and Carrie Freer agree that they hope to match that number this year, but they emphasized that it’s the community’s support that makes it possible. They are thankful for the people who purchase raffle tickets and come out to the Christmas in July lunch every year.
The lunch is donation-based; you will receive a sloppy joe, chips and a drink. You can also buy homemade cheesecake for dessert sold by "darling" young volunteers. There are several door prizes available this year for those who attend the lunch.
You can eat at Freer Auto Body or take your lunch to go. Carryout options are available by calling 618-466-6151.
The raffle tickets are on sale now or can be purchased at the Christmas in July event. Tickets cost $10.
Margaret said community members have donated “phenomenal” prizes, including seven-night stays in Florida, Alabama and South Carolina, Cardinal green seats, a side of beef, and $3,500 and $1,000 cash.
“But if you don’t win, it’s okay, because you donated to a great cause,” Carrie added.
The top three ticket sellers will also win coveted Cardinals tickets. Winners will be announced at the event.
You can purchase raffle tickets from any seller in the community, or you can contact Freer Auto Body to purchase tickets directly from them. Carrie is also selling raffle tickets via Venmo; visit the official Freer Auto Body Facebook page for more information.
You can dine-to-donate at Brown Bag Bistro throughout the week. Margaret also thanked Bakers & Hale for their recent dine-to-donate event. She noted that "small businesses always step up and do more than their share," and she is grateful for the community of small businesses and donors who have come together to make this year's fundraiser a success.
The donations and raffle ticket sales will impact many local families this winter. Proceeds go toward toys, clothes, hygiene supplies, food and other items that families need to stay healthy and happy through the holiday season.
The Christmas in July fundraiser is sure to draw a considerable crowd for lunch and the raffle. Margaret and Carrie encourage people to stop by Freer Auto Body to donate or buy a raffle ticket. They remind community members not to lose sight of the fundraiser’s goal: to help those in need.
“The whole weekend is just so fun,” Margaret added. “It helps so many people.”
For more information about Christmas in July, visit the official Facebook event page.
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