Holiday cheer spread by students
December 9, 2015
Medical Academy participates in Operation Christmas Child
The medical academy contributed to the ten million boxes that will be shipped overseas this holiday as part of Operation Christmas Child. A distribution center in Atlanta ships these shoeboxes to impoverished children all over the world including Africa, Guatemala and Madagascar so they can enjoy the festivities of the joyful holiday.
Medical Academy teachers, Kimberly Goins and Angela Holland gathered their classes a total of over 100 students, to bring in goods and take their class time away to wrap to provide these presents. Operation Christmas Child is a ministry that was started by Billy Graham for schools in the U.S. to spread the gospel and gifts to those whose day is made just by the little things.
“This is my sixteenth year doing this and I couldn’t be happier with how it’s gone.” Goins said.
The students start by picking their cardboard box or shoebox, then including a “wow” toy such as a doll, soccer ball or stuffed animal. Then they add other toys, hygiene items and school supplies. After that, they are asked to pray for their child who will receive the gift and donate seven dollars for shipping cost.
“Some of the kids include a letter or pictures just to have a good memory with the children. The program is just so wonderful. Imagining the smile is great enough” Holland said.
Students bring holiday cheer to elementary students
This year the Christmas program, again, welcomed numerous elementary schools to come and celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. Cheers and laughter erupted as the choir killed the room with festive melodies. The Kindergardeners became even more delighted when they were provided with entertainment from the cheer, dance and drama departments. To add to the excitement, Olaf the happy snowman performed his world-renowned “Summer” song. Concluding the program, the students received a special gift: a Santa chose those from a list to engage in the story of “The Night Before Christmas.”
Homeless on the Holidays
Christmastime brings cheer and joy all over the world, however some people do not get the same privileges. After a visit to a local homeless shelter, eyes were opened at how everyone does not get to always experience the holiday cheer.
A young mother of twins, Samantha Cerrygin, has to spend her Christmas explaining to her children why they will not be able to have a nice Christmas due to the recent and abrupt loss of her job, car and home. She has been traveling around the state, looking for a place that will provide she and her family with a home and helping hand. According to Samantha, she has not had any luck.
“It’s depressing to think about the struggle, and the fact that no one will help me and my family in this time of need. Where is everyone when you need them the most?” Samantha said.
Samantha claims her family does not want any part of her children’s life because she has a history of drug abuse and many don’t want to take the risk. Samantha’s eight -year old son, Chase, is going strong, not getting overly upset about his despair the season. He helps his sister who seems to be more emotional about the situation.
“I understand what is going on with the family, but I really wish it was easier, ” Chase said
Another couple, Michael and Cheridy Booker, were recently kicked out of their home for failure to pay rent; and after reaching out to family they also have not had any luck and will have to spend the holidays stranded. Cheridy says she has been dealing with everything and she is attempting to slowly recover from the recent tragic event. Michael thinks it would be best to find settlement soon, because being homeless isn’t the life he planned.
“We recently lost our son, and it has been difficult to get back on our feet, and even harder with this season.” Michael said. “Many jobs aren’t even hiring like they usually are and it is becoming increasingly stressful attempting to take care of myself and my wife.”
Both of these families are struggling during this tough time and it brings to question, Who will have your back when the time comes?
Names have been changed for privacy reasons.