Annie Malone May Day Parade cancelled due to financial challenges

The Annie Malone Children & Family Services has announced the postponement of its annual May Day Parade, originally set for May 18, due to rising costs and dwindling donations. This decision was made to prioritize the critical needs of families facing food insecurity and housing instability, as the nonprofit aims to redirect funds to support its vital programs. Organizers, including parade chair John Bowman, have called on local donors to step in and provide financial support to ensure the event's future, highlighting the importance of community involvement. The parade, which has been a St. Louis tradition since 1910, serves as the organization's largest fundraiser and is crucial for funding services that aid families in crisis. While the organization hopes to resume the parade in 2026, it is currently focused on raising essential funds to strengthen its community support initiatives. Annie Malone CEO Keisha Lee emphasized the emotional weight of this decision, reflecting on the parade's significance as a celebration of resilience and unity in the community.