Every year, OBI partners with Virginian non-profits to bring Christmas cheer to needy groups such as battered women, low-income families and the elderly.

The group of seniors was served a hearty barbecue lunch and entertained with activities like caroling and swing-dancing.

VIRGINIA BEACH - While the Christmas season is usually time spent with family and friends, Gussie and her stuffed toy chihuahua nearly spent it alone.

"I just planned to talk to him," said Gussie of her toy chihuahua named "John."

Fortunately for Gussie, on Dec. 14, she and "John" would have the opportunity to celebrate Christmas with more than 200 seniors at a party hosted by Operation Blessing and Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia.

The party is part of OBI's fourth annual "12 Days of Christmas" outreach, and one of 12 ways in which Operation Blessing and volunteers can demonstrate love and goodwill to those in need throughout the Hampton Roads area.

Each year, OBI partners with local non-profits in Virginia to bring Christmas cheer to groups ranging from teens in crisis and adults with developmental disabilities, to low-income families, the elderly, and battered women.

"I had a nice time," said Becky, who attended the senior event held at a community center in Norfolk.

For many seniors like Becky and Gussie, who often face the challenges of not being able to cook for themselves or celebrate the holidays without immediate families, this yearly celebration comes as a welcome treat.

"We had a very good turn out," said Patricia Whitley of Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia. "Some of the attendees were second-time participants who look forward to coming every year."

Volunteers and staff from OBI and Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia helped to decorate the facility, served a hearty barbecue lunch, and entertained the group with caroling, a reading of the Christmas story and swing-dancing.

OBI also made sure that no one left the party empty-handed. Specially prepared gift bags filled with food, candies and gifts were distributed to everyone in attendance.

"This was really nice," said Mary, a retiree who carpooled to the event with friends. "I just retired, and being able to come to something like this over the holidays means a lot to us."

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Every day, the fleet of Hunger Strike Force trucks are on the road, delivering nutritious food and essential supplies to thousands facing hunger and poverty. With your help, we can continue to impact lives and give hope to those who need it most. Consider making an online donation today.

 

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