Christmas assistance programs and winter events for families

With the holiday spirit in full swing, it is important that families of all socioeconomic backgrounds get to enjoy it. There are various local organizations that seek to brighten the season for struggling families by providing much-needed services and gifts. RELATED: Blessings for all: Churches giving back for the holidays “This is important to show that they are valued; that they are worthy of. A lot of people in privileged communities get to experience holiday joys, but when you’re at a disadvantage, you don’t. We offer that for them,” said Dee Ross, founder and CEO of The Ross Foundation. They are hosting their ninth annual toy giveaway Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Boys & Girls Club, 3870 N. Post Road, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. They are preparing to give away over 1,500 toys on a first-come, first-served basis.“Beyond that, we don’t want to see them come back next year, so they leave with more than what they came with because we give them an intake form for services to help them beyond the holidays,” said Ross. Christmas assistant programs Their intake form lists options for food, employment, housing, tutoring and mental health services. Ross said he takes pride in his community,...