By Jessica Easthope
‘Twas a few weeks before Christmas, a line started to form in St. Vincent Ferrer Church in East Flatbush, Brooklyn – the basement was nice and warm.
Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens once again answers the call with gifts to make Christmas perfect for one and all.
“For many children, this is the only gift that will be under their tree this year. And we’ve had parents crying by the fact that they’re able to provide at least a gift for their child,” Debbie Hampson, Senior Director of Community Outreach Services at Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens (CCBQ) tells Current News.
Toys of all kinds separated by age, these families aren’t here to beat the shopping craze.
They come from all over with every type of need hoping to put something under the tree.
“This is a great opportunity. It helps me focus on other things I can get my kids,” Jessica McLaurin, a parent at the toy shop says.
“It’s very emotional. Especially when they open it and they see it,” says Domonique Powell, who also came to the toy shop. “And they have gratitude the same way I have gratitude. It brings a smile to their face every time.”
CCBQ’s toy shop comes with personal shopper elves to help families grab gifts off the shelves.
You can pick a game, a doll or something that bounces, and magically they’ll show up at each of your houses.
“The parent isn’t on their own. And what’s great is that the shopper elf, after going around a few times, they know where things are,” explains Hampson.
Santa gets all the credit as everyone knows, but the truth is moms and dads are the real heroes.
“I put in the hard work as a mother to get them something special for the holidays and also give to other kids as well,” McLaurin tells Currents News.
Out of 4,000 toys every kid gets one from their list. For many it’s plenty – a childhood christmas wish.
These people say they love the compassion that’s expressed.
“Giving is really is what the season is about,” says Hampson.
“It’s a beautiful blessing. I thank God, I do,” adds Powell.
Somehow, God always handles the rest.