Be Strong International wasn’t going to let the COVID-19 pandemic place any further burden on parents who may be struggling financially. As a result, BSI’s first-ever Holiday Toy Drive is new initiative that delighted parents and children by providing wrapped gifts and a jolly, dancing Santa Claus at the South Point Crossing Apartments in Florida City, Florida, this past Friday.
“It felt so good to see my son receive gifts today,” said Luz Valentine, a resident at South Point Crossing Apartments. “He was excited to see Santa and how Be Strong International had turned the community center into the North Pole!”
More than 200 needy children between the ages of 3-13 received presents during BSI’s Holiday Toy Drive on December 11th from 2 to 4 p.m. Gift items included books, interactive games, sports equipment, arts and crafts kits, journal sets, play food and kitchen sets, science kits, bath products, action figures, toy trucks and cars, stuffed animals, and gift cards.
“It was an absolute honor to be a part of such an amazing event. At times, the children moved me to tears,” said Jesus Diaz-Aquino, a BSI staff member who dressed up as Santa for the event. “We truly don’t know who and how we impact our community. God is using us all to carry out his mission! I can confidently say that I had the most fun at the event!”
Santa could be seen having a merry time, taking pictures with children and their wrapped gifts at a socially safe distance, and directing them to a booth close by where they could receive milk and cookies as well as other goodies provided by Be Strong’s sponsors and partners.
Sponsors and partners that made the toy drive possible include the Honorable Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, District 9 Commissioner Kionne McGhee, District 9 School Board member Luisa Santos, TD BANK, Florida Blue, Texas Roadhouse, Be the Light Ari Arteaga Foundation, The Manuel Real Estate Team, Five Below, and Pro Insurance Consultants.
“Our number one priority is to give back because we are very much a part of this community, and we care,” said Roberto Alonso, a representative at BlueCross Blue Shield. “Extraordinary times call for extraordinary service.”
During these challenging times, BSI has offered the gift of giving and service when the community needed it the most, including a school supply drive in August and a Thanksgiving food drive in November.
