Rappers know how to make a statement—whether it’s through iced-out chains colder than the Artic or a rotation of cribs to relax in after a high-energy performance. Their style often commands attention, from runway-ready fits (just leave the shark boots in 2023, as Latto wisely suggested) to heartfelt tributes honoring the people and places that shaped their journeys, much like Kendrick Lamar did with GNX.
But during the holiday season, the focus shifts from self-expression to selflessness. It’s a time to extend love and support, especially to their hometowns, knowing all too well how many families would benefit from a helping hand. While department stores may rely on those questionable-looking Santas outside JCPenney to ring in the season, hip-hop artists are stepping up in meaningful ways. From donating time and resources to hosting charitable events, these rappers remind us of the true spirit of giving.
Travis Scott
Travis Scott, of course, had to put on for his hometown of Houston, Texas, this holiday season. His Cactus Jack Foundation, the Houston Food Bank, and Texas Southern (also the Webster family alma mater) gave away over 2,000 toys and bikes, 1,000 bags of food, 200 Nike “Cactus Jack” sneakers, and more on December 21. Travis even enlisted his daughter Stormi to help with the giveaway.
The event also marked a milestone, bringing the Waymon Webster Scholarship Program (which has awarded over one million dollars to graduating HBCU seniors) to the toy drive for the first time. The Winter Wonderland featured a bounce house and special appearances from Don Toliver, Love Island’s Serena Page, and Santa Claus. Attendees could also purchase limited-edition Fanatics, Cactus Jack Nike, Houston Astros, and Space Village gear and sign up for Scott’s TXRX Lab.
21 Savage
On December 21 as well, 21 Savage had his own Christmas bash down in ATL. Along with his Leading By Example Foundation, the rapper hosted his sixth annual toy drive in Atlanta’s DeKalb County at The Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center.
They gave away over 3,000 toys, food, clothes, bikes, and additional presents to over 1,000 kids and families. However, the day was even more special for Savage thanks to Congressman Hank Johnson and his wife, Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson of DeKalb County. The two longtime fans of the rapper presented him with two community action awards and four proclamations, including the official designation of December 21 as “21 Savage Leading By Example Day” in DeKalb County.
Latto
“Big Mama” does her big one every year for her home base of Clayton County, Atlanta. Since 2021, Latto founded the Win Some Give Some Foundation, one of the most significant events of the year being the “Latto 4 The Ladies & Babies Christmas Party.” Now, the event is known as “Christmas in Clayton,” with the festivities growing yearly. Teaming up with District 1 Commissioner Dr. Alieka Anderson on December 9, she gave away over $500,000 worth of gifts sponsored and donated by brands including UGGs, Apple, and Savage x Fenty.
Quavo
On December 19, the former Migos member made sure to “walk it like he talks it” when giving back to the Greater Atlanta community. Quavo and his organization, Quavo Cares, hosted the second annual ‘Huncho Farms’ along with the Atlanta City Council and the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The event provided nutritional education and essential food to 500 families in need. The themed farmers market featured holiday activities, live music, and a custom Huncho Farms cookbook with year-round healthy and delicious recipes.
Councilwoman Andrea Boone said she is “so grateful that Quavo and the Quavo Cares Foundation chose this community for their Huncho Farms event this year. This neighborhood is situated in a food desert, where a vast number of grandparents are raising their grandchildren … Thanks to the generosity of the Quavo Cares Foundation, our residents will enjoy a beautiful Christmas dinner.”
TDE
It has been 11 years and counting since TDE started its annual toy drive and charity concert at the Nickerson Gardens Public Housing Projects. In the same neighborhood where founder Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith and other members like Jay Rock grew up, stars like SZA, Doechii, and Kendrick Lamar came through on December 12 and turned up with the kids. From K. Dot playing “squabble up” with all the kids onstage to Glorilla’s surprise performance of “TGIF,” the night was one to remember. There were over 10,000 people in attendance, and over $750,000 worth of clothing and toys were donated to the culture.
Offset and Ebony Austin
Ebony Austin, the owner of Nouveau Bar & Grill, teamed up with Offset to host their fifth annual toy drive and winter wonderland on December 16. Taking place at Gateway Arena Center, they gave away everything from brand-new bicycles to gaming consoles. There was also plenty of hot chocolate to go around as a ballerina danced around the arena as the Jonesboro High School and North Clayton High School bands welcomed the over 600 families inside.
DaBaby
On December 21, DaBaby continued to push the missions of his new foundation, DaBaby Cares, forward for Christmas. In Charlotte, North Carolina, the rapper hosted his fourth annual “Kirk Pole” holiday giveback event, including a meet and greet with DaBaby and Santa Claus. Hundreds of youth and families received toys and clothes for the holidays while enjoying a live band performance from the North Carolina Panthers. However, there was also a resource activation and information table from the Charlotte branch of the National Alliance of Mental Illness to provide aid for those struggling mentally this holiday season and beyond.
