Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) is proud to partner for the second year with Kenny’s Kids, an Eastern Kentucky-based organization that brings joy to children and families during the holiday season. 

“We were able to help out so many families last year who wouldn’t have been able to buy toys through other routes, thanks to ARH providing additional toys,” said Greg Champion, ARH Accounting Analyst and Knott County Youth Foundation Board Member. “It means a lot to see the impact. Kenny, my dad, started this program to give back, and seeing it grow keeps his legacy alive.”

Kenny Champion’s heart for giving led him to create Kenny’s Kids while he was battling Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. As a Child Support Investigator for the state, Kenny witnessed many families’ hardships, especially during the holidays. He was determined to ensure every child in Eastern Kentucky had a memorable Christmas, which led him to starting Kenny’s Kids.

“Our goal has always been to help as many families and kids as we can, and this year, we’re excited to expand,” Greg added. “It’s not always just about toys. Some children desperately need shoes or winter boots, and monetary donations allow us also to provide these essentials, making a real difference.”

The toys, received from partners like ARH through Good360, are distributed to children identified by their school’s Family Resource and Youth Service Centers. However, as the holidays approach, Greg and the Knott County Youth Foundation, which runs Kenny’s Kids, still need more donations—both toys and monetary contributions.

“Good360 has been instrumental in making this all possible,” said Todd White, Director of Behavioral Health Security Operations at ARH, who also manages the ARH Disaster Relief Center. “Their support allows us to secure toys and other essentials for children in need. Without their partnership, we wouldn’t be able to reach as many families as we do. Good360’s generosity has truly helped bring the spirit of Christmas to so many kids in Eastern Kentucky.”

“Toys are always in high demand, particularly for younger children, but there’s also a need for winter clothing items like shoes and boots,” said Greg. “This year, we’re also asking for donations of wrapping paper, tape, and scissors to ensure that each gift is wrapped and ready to brighten a child’s Christmas.”

“We couldn’t do this without the generosity of the community,” Greg noted. “Every donation, whether it’s a toy, tape, or a pair of shoes, helps make Christmas a little brighter for these kids.”

As for the future of Kenny’s Kids, the team has big dreams. “The goal is to keep expanding into more counties,” Greg said. “We want to reach as many families and kids as we can. Dad’s spirit of giving will always be at the heart of what we do, and with the support of ARH and the community, we hope to continue growing this program for years to come.”

Community support is vital to the program’s success. Those interested in contributing can donate toys or make monetary donations to meet the additional needs of clothing and other essentials. Wrapping supplies like paper, tape, and scissors are also welcome, as they help complete the holiday experience.

Those interested in donating or volunteering may contact Greg Champion at 606-497-7741 for more information.

“The ARH Foundation and ARH play a vital role in supporting initiatives like this that benefit families across Eastern Kentucky,” said Angela Bailey, Executive Director of the ARH Foundation. “Your generosity will help us continue to expand programs that support the people in our communities.” 

To learn more about the ARH Foundation for Healthier Communities, please visit www.arh.org/donate Follow us on social at https://www.facebook.com/ARHFoundation/ or @ARHFoundationKY.