The donation reflects contributions made by many of the 52,335 visitors who experienced the beloved Crib of the Nativity during the 2025 holiday season, along with Western & Southern’s longstanding commitment to matching those gifts dollar for dollar. Proceeds will support The Salvation Army’s year-round programs serving individuals and families across Greater Cincinnati.
“The Crib of the Nativity reminds us what’s possible when a community leads with compassion,” said Major Martha Bone, Director of Operations for The Salvation Army of Greater Cincinnati. “Because of Western & Southern’s continued partnership and the generosity of every visitor, families across our region can find food, shelter, and stability—not just during the holidays, but throughout the year.”
Since its beginnings in 1939, the Crib of the Nativity has been a cherished Cincinnati tradition, welcoming generations of families to reflect, give, and serve. In 1993, Western & Southern’s foundation began matching donations made at the display, amplifying the impact of each individual gift.
“The Crib of the Nativity represents the heart of our community—tradition, generosity, and care for one another,” said John F. Barrett, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Western & Southern Financial Group. “We are proud to continue this partnership with The Salvation Army and honored to help turn the kindness of our neighbors into meaningful support for those who need it most.”
To date, donations generated through the Crib of the Nativity totaling nearly $1.18 million have helped fund essential Salvation Army services, including food assistance, housing stability, utility support, addiction recovery, and emergency aid for families in crisis.
To learn more about programs offered locally by The Salvation Army or how to help, visit salvationarmycincinnati.org.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 27 million people in America overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships by preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human needs in His name without discrimination in nearly every zip code. By providing food, shelter, eviction prevention assistance, emergency disaster relief, rehabilitation, after-school and summer youth programs, spiritual enrichment, and more, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 6,400 centers of operation around the country. Donations help provide meals, shelter, youth programs, anti-human trafficking services, emergency financial assistance, and spiritual care to thousands of local families. All gifts stay in the donor’s zip code to support local programs.