HOLLYWOOD, Fla — Hollywood Broward Outreach Center (BOC) celebrated Christmas with residents and needy families from the community. The day was filled with laughter, Christmas carols, raffles, and a Christmas luncheon with all the fixings. Friends of Broward Homeless along with Oreander Group, and Sherivonne Browne attended to “grant wishes” of attendees and distribute presents.

The spirit of Christmas was also in the air at BOC Pompano Beach. Residents and needy families from the community gathered in the pavilion for music and a Christmas message delivered by BOC Sr. Community Development Associate, Nina Corbe. DJ King Hype played Christmas music while Santa, his elves (from Structural Prevention System), and 40 volunteers distributed toys to all children and Mission Hope totes to adults.

Kadima Ministry provided the Christmas meal; which was followed by the opening of a toy store with gifts donated by Whole Foods, Lynn Fisher, Lisa Ginta, Hands on Broward, Kadima Ministry, Reach FM, Moss Associates, and BSO; providing an opportunity for attendees to shop for their loved ones.

Pompano Beach Volunteer, Katie, said, “My family and I love volunteering at the BOC every day of the year but Christmas is a particularly special time. I don’t know who is blessed more by this day of outreach, the homeless, or myself. We take so much for granted every day, today is a reminder to be grateful for what we have, a reminder to constantly be serving others and giving back what we can.”

Melissa Singh, Sr. Community Development Associate at Miami Rescue Mission said, “I love our Great Christmas Outreach because it’s the one event of the year where we not only serve the homeless and needy, but low-income, at risk families in our community. It’s so fun to see all the families here—parents are so grateful to be able to provide toys for their children, and the kids just have a blast watching the play and singing with the band. The trees are an awesome touch too, we just want to bless families and remind them they don’t have to feel distressed during the holidays.”