For many families, the holiday season is a time of celebration, connection, and tradition. But for families facing financial hardship, it can also bring difficult choices between basic needs and creating meaningful holiday experiences for their children.


Thanks to a grant from Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa, Proteus, Inc. was able to expand its annual Presents from Proteus event, bringing joy, support, and lasting memories to families across Des Moines.

Creating Meaningful Holiday Moments

With Variety’s support, 67 families and 199 children were welcomed to the Proteus office for a celebration filled with gifts, food, crafts, and connection. Children had the opportunity to visit with a bilingual Santa Claus, creating a more inclusive and personal experience for families of diverse backgrounds.

The event also provided essential resources, including food pantry items and Hy-Vee gift cards, allowing families to purchase groceries that reflected their cultural traditions and dietary needs, helping holiday meals feel more like home.

More Than Gifts

For many children, the impact went beyond the day itself. Variety also donated three newly built bicycles, offering children opportunities for play, independence, and joy. One 13-year-old shared that he had always wanted a bike but had never owned one before.

In partnership with Happy Hearts & Hooves, families also received artificial Christmas trees and decorations - ensuring each home could carry the warmth of the holiday season long after the event ended.

Because of Variety’s support, the impact of Presents from Proteus for Central Iowa’s children and families was deepened this year. More food reached each household, bikes were delivered to deserving children, and joyful holiday memories were created for nearly 200 children who otherwise may have gone without. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the meaningful difference it made during the holiday season.

Daniel Zinnel, CEO of Proteus, Inc.

Strengthening Families and Traditions

With Variety’s support, families experienced fewer tradeoffs during the holidays and greater stability during a critical time of year. Children enjoyed full tables, meaningful traditions, and the joy that comes from simply being a kid during the holidays.

Because when basic needs are met, families can focus on what matters most - creating memories that last a lifetime.