On Christmas Eve, dozens of volunteers and donors made it a mission to bring Christmas to residents at the Brookdale Resource Center and they accomplished it.
About 100 volunteers came together to wrap presents, decorate the Center, and feed guests and their families. The Center held its first Christmas Eve Pajama party thanks to generous donations from all over our community.
Over the past few weeks, churches, organizations, and individuals collected presents for people of all ages staying at the Center. Stockings and bags were overflowing for recipients.
“It was incredible to see the faces on our residents, especially the children, as they got their gifts and celebrated,” said Brookdale Executive Director Alison Bender. “For one night, they got to relax and enjoy the holiday. The worry they carry with them every day was put on pause as they saw how much our community cares about them.”
Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and Buddy the Elf made an appearance to take pictures, make crafts, and play games with the kids and their families.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to donate or volunteer,” said Bender. “You truly made a difference this holiday season.”