For the past 34 years, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Joliet Area-South Suburban Alumnae Chapter, has given toys, winter clothing and a hot meal to hundreds of children and their families for Christmas. This year set a record for the organization’s annual Breakfast With Santa, and more than 300 kids receiving toys, winter clothing, vaccines and a host of other goodies from both Santa and generous sponsors, according to organizers.
“This year, there was a real outpouring of good will,” said Chapter President Aisha Barnes. “We had more than 500 people turn out in total, including adults and children, and no one left empty handed.” In addition to passing out toys, the organization provided a Warming Area, where children got coats, hats, scarves, and gloves.
“There was also free food, in the form of a hot breakfast for the children,” Barnes said. “Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois gave out fresh fruit and vegetable boxes to the children and their families, complete with a free turkey. Jewel Osco gave free vaccines for COVID, RSV, the flu, and all other available vaccines, free of charge to anyone who attended. There were several generous sponsors, including the NAACP, local Internet providers and health care professionals from throughout the South Suburban area who gave of their time, goods and services.”
Omega Psi Phi fraternity, Nu Pi Joliet Chapter turned up with their members to provide a helping hand.
“We couldn’t have pulled this event off without their generous support and the help and support of so many others.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Joliet Area-South Suburban Alumnae Chapter encompasses more than 47 communities in its service area. Richton Park, Matteson, South Holland, Sauk Village and Country Club Hills are just a few of the communities which it serves.
“Everyone, young and old, got to take a picture with Mr. and Mrs. Claus,” Barnes joked. “It seems no one is too young or too old to get into the Christmas Spirit.”
news@thetimesweekly.com
