Christmas came a week early for about 500 kids in the Englewood community as Riteway Construction Co. President Larry Huggins put on his annual event.
Kids’
eyes were all aglow and the yuletide was bright as the kids received video
games, bicycles and other items as part of the Christmas in Englewood event
Saturday held at the Ogden Park Fieldhouse, 6500 S. Racine. Huggins started the
event in the South Side community over a decade ago and Ald. Latasha Thomas has
been involved with the holiday giveaway with him since before she was head of
the 17th Ward.
“I
wouldn’t have a Christmas without (the giveaway),” Thomas told the Defender.
She explained that the children and their families who get gifts are chosen by
local block clubs and other community organizations, then Christmas in
Englewood workers shop specifically for them.
Huggins
explained that this year’s event was made possible by over $75,000 in
contributions from local contractors, developers and business owners.
“I am thrilled to see fellow
businesses, contractors and individuals show their support with this important
toy giveaway to the children and their families in the Englewood area. We continue our mission to spread some
joy and hope in their lives, especially during these trying times for many
families,” Huggins, who founded the program in 1996.
The event
draws elected officials and others from all over the city, including alderman
and Mayor Richard M. Daley. This year Cubs owner Tom Ricketts was on hand to
help spread Christmas joy.
Thomas
said that even with the economy down, donors continue to help lift up Christmas
in Englewood.
“I am
just really amazed and happy at how the donations continue to increase” despite
the economy, she said. “People give because they see that it goes directly to
kids in need.”
Copyright
2010 Chicago Defender
