Celebrating the true meaning of Christmas, CBN News along with Operation Blessing, hosted an event to support families in need in Norfolk, Virginia. According to CBN News, they gave out gifts from groceries to toys for kids, and helped out more than 300 families. Residents expressed their gratitude for being thought of and cared for as many face even more challenging circumstances this year due to high inflation.
Members of the U.S. military also attended the event to support the cause including Army Master Sergeant Shavodka Burton who said, “It’s just a great experience to come back and give back to the community and spread love and joy.” Hearing directly from residents, that is exactly what CBN News and Operation Blessing are doing. One resident, Marvin Bell, shared that it helps noting that jobs are scarce in their community, and he is grateful when people show up to show their love and support when times are tough.
Another resident, Jasmine Bond, pointed out what this event means to the children. Bond said, “it’s good for the kids to see that people still care about them having great Christmases and having good toys.” Among the toys they were given, children also received a Superbook Christmas box full of DVD’s and activity books.
Noting that the spirit of giving is what Christmas is all about, one attendee who went to the event to share the Gospel with others, Angela Holmes, shared that she wanted the community to remember that Jesus is the reason we celebrate this season, and giving back to others is one of the ways we celebrate His birth.
At Christmastime, giving means a little bit more as communities unite to spread joy and celebrate the blessing of faith. While being able to enjoy a hot holiday meal and watch the happiness glow on each child’s face, residents have been given the gift of hope and love. Reaching out to families that need help, CBN News and Operation Blessing are reminding all that Christmas is not about filling out a living room floor with presents piled high, it is about filling people’s hearts with joy, love, and hope.