Even though the rain was pouring down the entire day, over 400 people attended FIRM’s 20th Annual Community Christmas event. Due to the weather, the event had to be moved inside which made this a very unique day! Families took pictures with Santa, did Christmas-themed arts and crafts, participated in a Child Evangelism Fellowship party (the Gospel was shared with about 100 children), enjoyed lunch and much more. Through the Marine Foundation Toys for Tots and the generous donation of additional gifts from the community, FIRM also distributed over 450 toys for refugee families that were in need during the Christmas season. We are looking forward to continuing this event for well into the future and are hoping for sunny skies next year! A special thanks to the following:
- United Japanese Christian Church (Provided huge volunteer team, gifts, hundreds of cookies/treats and the arts and crafts for the children! This event would not be possible without them!)
- Councilman Clint Olivier (Helped pay for the event)
- Fred Smith (Santa)
- University Presbyterian Church (Provided many gifts for children)
- San Joaquin Fine Woodworkers Association (Provide many gifts for children)
- Child Evangelism Fellowship (Did the Gospel presentation party for children)
- Clinica Sierra Vista (Provided free flu shots)
- The hundreds of volunteers who helped wrap nearly 500 presents, helped facilitate the event and cooked lunch for the community!