Last weekend, several of Santa’s helpers from Focal Pointe we’re out in the community sharing Holiday Cheer with the families of first responders who are experiencing a different, more difficult Christmas season this year. Groups of volunteers met at homes in communities across southwest Illinois including Troy, Shiloh, and Waterloo. While Christmas music streamed through the morning air, our cheerful volunteers hung lights and decorated festive holiday containers. With the occasional break for hot chocolate and homemade cookies, the spirit of generosity made the day joyful.
The volunteer teams are pictured below.
“There was so much about Saturday that made it special. When we first started unloading our supplies, the kids were at the window sill watching us.” said team member, Lisa Stoner. “Then when talking with their Mom about outlets and what-not, we were able to safely share our hot chocolate and cookies with them. Next thing you know they were playing in the yard while we played Christmas music and hung Christmas lights. For that morning, our work family became part of their family, and it was touching. It was a wonderful day.”
Special thanks go out to volunteer coordinators Dana Fritsche and Victoria Thomas, as well as team-leads Elizabeth Fraley, Scott Wallace, and Donna Padget.