The holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year. However, for many, it can be the most difficult time of the year. We had the honor of helping children who are impoverished and didn’t even know if they would receive a present from Santa this year. We were thankful that we raised and purchased enough toys to support the community of Camino with their annual Christmas at Camino Toy Giveaway. And like in years past, we were able to again be part of the giveaway and dinner at the Church of God Orphanage. We love seeing all the kids handing out presents to all the children and seeing the smiles on their faces when they open their gifts. Our toy drive was able to help children who have to spend Christmas in a hospital room with so many unanswered questions. Thanks to the folks in Myrtle Beach, some of these kids got two sweet rides to be transported back and forth between rooms. We absolutely loved this idea and so thankful for the wonderful thought and call to action. Then there are those who still have not recovered from the tremendous destruction of the hurricanes to hit the Eastern part of North Carolina. Families there were not just asking for toys, they needed clothes, toiletries and personal items. We were honored to help the Grifton Mission Ministries and adopt two large families in need. Lastly, we were able to help a single mom who is expecting her second child in the next month or two when she courageously reached out to our organization for help. We were blessed to provide items of need, toys for her son and a double stroller to help her when her new baby arrives.
Again, we cannot thank everyone enough who helped support our cause and organization and continue to do so. We are thankful for not only the toys donated, the money given but also the time that was spent wrapping gifts, giving them away or just witnessing first hand the impact that we have. We hope the experience this year had an impact on you all and that we have your support in our future initiatives.
Finally, we would be amiss if we did not extend our gratitude to the men of F3, both locally here in Lake Norman and across the country. Your support is unwavering from the beginning and much of what we do would not be possible without your passion, time, energy and generosity. We are blessed for you and your partnership!
As we look back on the success of 2018 and enjoy a small break, we are excited for what 2019 will bring and the impact we can have and that begins with the 2nd Annual Christina Latini Memorial 8K, 2 Mile Walk and Virtual Run on March 30th. We look forward to all those that run, walk, sponsor and volunteer to help kick off what should be our biggest year yet. Happy New Year and God bless!