2nd Annual Christmas in the City
Krissy Todd recognized a need in her community of Oviedo, Florida. Her dream of helping the less fortunate became a reality with the HOPE Foundation and its mission to prevent and reduce homelessness in Central Florida by equipping individuals and families to become self-sufficient through Housing, Outreach, Prevention and Education.
On December 18, 2009 the 2nd Annual Christmas in the City was held. The event was for the entire community. Successes celebrated from the event included:
• Over 531 families were given a complete Christmas dinner totaling $26,500.
• Over 1,1060 children/teens received two new presents per child totaling $42,400.
• Clothing was given to 1,060 children/teens valued at $25,500.
• A hot meal was served to 1,400 people at a value of $2,534 and
• … the spirit of Christmas was given to those who may have gone without.
Members of ChangeThrough Giving volunteered at the event by playing in the game/playground area outside with children, assisting parents and children in selecting the perfect toys, and gift wrapping toys for Christmas morning.
Over 350 volunteers participated to bring all the magic to this special event.
HOPE Foundation has many programs in addition to the Christmas in the City, For example, Kids of Hope provides lunches when schools are closed, in addition to offering a twice-a-week food bank where parents can pick out canned foods, bread and treats for their families. The children get bagged lunches every weekday when they’re not in school.
For more information on the HOPE Foundation, visit www.HopeHelps.org.
