The continuation of Christmas in the City despite the pandemic
From: The Boston Globe
The Corey C. Griffin Foundation held a holiday toy drive for children currently residing in a homeless shelter in Roxbury, Massachusetts. This initiative was part of the Christmas in the City program, which runs non-denominational events for children and families experiencing homelessness and poverty. Typically, one large Christmas in the City holiday event is held in Boston. However, due to the pandemic the organization asked groups to sponsor shelters and deliver gifts directly there.
The Corey C. Griffin Foundation reached out to is volunteers and true to form, the response was amazing. The sign-ups to purchase over 200 gifts came quickly and 20 children, ages 2-months-old to 17, will soon receive two special gifts from their wish lists. Additionally, they will receive necessities such as socks, gloves and hats along with fun surprises in a backpack. Some of the items on the kids’ wish lists included: baby activity gym; sports equipment; barbies, blocks; books; board games; and science and art kits.
Special thanks to the Foundation’s volunteer coordinator, Megan Greeley. Megan is a CCG supporter and has been involved with Christmas in the City since her own childhood. “The children will be absolutely thrilled with the gifts provided by the Foundation and its volunteers this year,” said Megan. “No doubt it’s been a very challenging year for their families. We’re hopeful these gifts will bring them some joy this holiday season.”
Volunteers purchased the gifts and had them shipped to Megan. Megan, along with family members, wrapped all the gifts and on December 19th, they were dropped off at the shelter. They will be distributed to the children over a two-day period to ensure COVID-19 safety protocols. In addition to the presents, shelter residents will be gifted festive meals from neighborhood restaurants.
The holiday spirit is alive and well.
Accompanying Boston Globe article speaks of the continuation of Christmas in the City during the pandemic and highlights the Corey C. Griffin gift drive volunteers and photos.