A megachurch in California, the Assemblies of God-affiliated Destiny Christian Church, has rallied its congregation to host an event for needy families at which the children from those families in need will receive Christmas gifts, namely toys, books, and clothes, that their families would not otherwise be able to give them.
The event, called “Love Our City Christmas,” will occur on Saturday at the massive, 64,000-square-foot Destiny Community Center. During the event, expected to bring in 2,000 people, about 200 congregants and volunteers will serve up hot chocolate and hand out a toy, clothes, a jacket, and a book to each needy child, while Santa plays with and takes pictures with kids.
Destiny Church spokesperson Tanner DiBella, commenting on the event, which has occurred annually since 2013, noted that it is a huge boost for families struggling to meet even their basic needs, saying, “For many during the holiday season, there are practical needs that are simply not met. Food, clothing and security seem out of reach for many underserved families, and that becomes more prominent during the holidays.”
Continuing, DiBella described the event, saying, “Destiny’s Christmas outreach event helps meet those needs and more, where we can bless families and provide a wonderful Christmas experience with toys, books, pictures with Santa and a day of cheer for everyone.”
Then, explaining why showing such charity to the families, and indeed everyone in need of a bit of love at a time that can be more sad than happy for those in trying circumstances, DiBella said, “In addition to the practical needs that are met, we want each family to know how truly loved they are. The holidays can be a reminder of loss, lack and loneliness, and we want each child and parent to feel seen and loved. Christmas is a reminder to us all of the profound gift of grace, mercy, love and salvation, and we desire each family to walk away with that realization.”
Posting about the event on Facebook, Destiny Church said, “Tomorrow, we have the tremendous opportunity to serve over 2,000 families with a Christmas they’ll never forget. See y’all tomorrow and follow along for live updates. ✨🎄 #loveourcity”
In another post on the event and what it hopes to accomplish with it, the church said, “With over 2000 families RSVP’d and 400 volunteers registered, we are ready to serve our community this Saturday at Love Our City Christmas! 🎄 Our prayer is that the love of God would emulate through us to these cherished kids and parents. In Jesus’ Name. 🙏🤍”
Inviting all to the event on its website, Destiny added, “Join us for our 11th Year of our Love Our City Christmas Event! Families will have the opportunity to explore our clothing boutique, pick out toys & books for their children. Children will make crafts, take pictures with Santa, jump in bounce houses and indulge in hot chocolate and sweet treats all while creating some cherished memories!”
Featured image credit: Destiny Christian Church Facebook
"*" indicates required fields