Many children live without means to have their most basic needs met, much less receive a gift at holiday time. The Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America set a morning aside to spread some joy with their Breakfast with Santa event impacting 15 families with 40 children who are in need.

On Saturday, Dec. 2nd at Johnson C. Smith University, the chapter provided breakfast, entertainment, games, gifts and a visit with Santa. Some of the kids who attended are being helped through programs of A Child’s Place.

“Events like this are so important, because these children are going through so much not being in a stable home,” Natasha Grant-Dean, student advocate at A Child’s Place, said.

A Child’s Place supports children and families by intervening at the point of crisis when a family is facing a housing crisis, which means they are either in a homeless shelter, staying place to place, living in a hotel or even in their car. The goal is to help stabilize the family, so they can begin to rebuild their lives.

“Many of our families don’t know day to day where they will be,” Grant-Dean said. “To be able to come out and get away from their current situation is phenomenal.”

"Jack and Jill of America is an organization of mothers dedicated to raising the next generation of African American leaders, while enhancing the lives of all children," Ericka Gibson, Charlotte Chapter President of Jack and Jill, said. "We achieve this through diverse programs focused on leadership development, cultural exposure, community service, legislative advocacy and philanthropic giving."

"I am always proud of the work our chapters provide throughout the region. The Charlotte Chapter continues to show that when we collaborate with others we have the power to make a difference," said Chanda Douglas-Ward, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director of Jack and Jill of America.

Jack and Jill members, their families and children helped serve breakfast, organize games and entertainment to ensure some of the less fortunate in attendance could enjoy their morning.

“The holiday season is coming up and a lot of our parents can’t afford to provide gifts,” Grant-Dean said. “By giving gifts to these children, they will still be able to celebrate Christmas.”

There was a lot of dancing, smiles, good food and plenty of pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus and gifts supplied by members of the Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill.

“I thank Jack and Jill and all the community agencies that are able to provide events like this for these children,” Grant-Dean said.

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