Some Christmas cheer was provided last week to those who need it the most.
More than 250 young girls and boys were treated to a magic show, gift giveaway and face painting as part of an annual holiday celebration in a Jamaica family homeless shelter.
Children of all ages were guests at the event at the Saratoga Family Inn on Dec. 22. Food and music put all in a festive mood but the best part was the live magic show in which several youngsters were invited to participate on stage.
Councilman Donovan Richards provided toys for the event through local donations to his office. He thanked the community for providing these donations and the local nonprofit 1906 Project for putting together the event.
“The holiday season is a time for giving, particularly to those who are less fortunate, which is why it is important that we never forget to make sure every child in the community has a gift to open on Christmas morning,” Richards said.
The celebration was sponsored by 1906 Project, and other co-sponsors included former New York Jet Michel Faulkner, President of EG Edwards & Associates Eva Duzant and Attorney Eric Sanders of the Sanders Firm.
“This Christmas is all about giving and we are very grateful for the opportunity to imitate God’s character in every area,” Faulkner said.
According to the 1906 Project, the Saratoga Family Inn is one of the largest family homeless shelters in New York City, providing temporary housing to more than 250 families and 375 children.
The 1906 Project has been working with the Saratoga Family Inn staff to put on an annual holiday event for the past eight years, and in this time the group has given out more than 1,500 toys to children in southeast Queens.
“These children and their families have faced challenges, so it warms your heart when you are able to bring smiles to their faces and families during this holiday season,” said 1906 Project President Jean Duchatellier.
