The Family Life Ministry at Fenimore Street United Methodist Church (FSUMC) in Brooklyn hosted its Annual Thanksgiving/Christmas Party on Dec. 6 for less fortunate children from the New York City Department of Homeless Services.
The celebration, which attracted over 100 children and families from Boulevard, Hospitality House, and Urban Transitional family shelters, was held in the church’s Fellowship Hall.
“The entire hall was beautifully decorated with Christmas ornaments, flashing lights and posters,” Marlene Ferguson, the ministry’s Trinidadian-born chairperson, told Caribbean Life. “Unfortunately, Mr. Santa Clause was deported back to the North Pole for clearance and could not return for the event.
“The committee members were very excited and full of enthusiasm for the celebration,” added the retired registered nurse at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and University Hospital in Brooklyn. “This event is a historical moment since the mission has been in operation for 30 years.”
Ferguson said the celebration began with the arrival of the guests from their respective residences.
“They disembarked from the buses with an expression of joy and anticipation for the special Christmas gift they would be receiving,” she said. “Everyone was beautifully attired, some wearing sweaters with their favorite Christmas characters.
“They received a warm welcome from Pastor (Roger) Jackson as they proceeded to their assigned seats,” Ferguson added, stating that Pastor Jackson officially opened the celebration with a prayer.
Afterwards, she said Pastor Jackson and his wife, First Lady Sis. Kim, organized several games. Participant received prizes ranging from first place to consolation.
Ferguson said the young children were excited to receive tattoos, a regular tradition, compliments Sis. Kim.
“The games have always been the highlight of the event,” she said, stating that they included tug-a-war, musical chairs, sack race, dart board, and ring toss.
“From the youngest to the oldest, none was exempt from the game,” she added. “What a joy it was to see the exuberance of happiness in the midst of unknown destiny!
“The clients repeatedly verbalized their appreciations for the event, and the expressions of love and caring from the committee members/workers,” Ferguson continued.
She said guests were served a “scrumptious lunch,” which included hamburgers, hotdogs, mac and cheese, french fries, fried chicken, potato salad, ham, turkey, rice, beans, and corn on the cob.
Ferguson said this was followed by the “favorite dessert” of ice cream and cake.
As the event proceeded to a close, she said the parents were escorted into the sanctuary, “where they freely selected items of new and used clothing.”
Afterwards, Ferguson said the children were also led into the sanctuary and given Christmas gifts.
“Again, what an expression of joy for those who received a favorable present and, likewise, some dissatisfaction for not so favorable gifts!” she said. “However, it was very rewarding to know that these unfortunate children and families had an opportunity to experience a moment of joy.
“To everyone who contributed, participated and attended the event, thank you for your faithfulness, even when you doubted that you were making an impact, even when your finances seemed too tight to continue to give,” Ferguson added. “Thank you for believing in children, families and communities alongside us, and being part of this changing mission.
“We give thanks for all that God has done in the past 30 years,” she continued. “We look forward to all that He will continue to do in the lives of our less fortunate families.
“This is what happens when people of faith come together and step into the gap for vulnerable children and families,” Ferguson said. “Together, we brought unforgettable joy to children, proving, that, with God, everything is possible.”
Joe King, coordinator for hospitality and recreation a Hospitality House in Staten Island, told Caribbean Life that his facility has been participating in the Thanksgiving/Christmas Party for the past 10 years.
“I love it!” he said. “Fenimore always shows residents that, no matter the circumstance, there’s somebody that cares.
“One thing I like is that the people of this church show the most warmth,” King added. “I’ll keep coming back.”
Angelina Thomas, senior childcare coordinator at Hospitality House, also expressed delight about the event.
“I love it!” she said. “It’s wholesome. Everybody feels like family. I can’t wait for next year to come back.”
Nigerian-born Fola Orrmadogunje, a resident at Boulevard in Queens, brought along his two children.
“I love it!” he also said. “I love the way they (hosts) move. My kids love it!”
