In the true spirit of giving, Riverside Presbyterian Church donated over 200 Christmas gifts to refugee youth and their families assisted by Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida.
The church has provided holiday gifts to refugee families in Jacksonville since 2017. This year, the church donated 222 wrapped gifts. This heartwarming initiative aimed to bring joy and welcome the newly arrived families during the festive season.
Scroll through the category to see some of the families with their holiday gifts.
Ranging from clothing to shoes and thoughtful gift cards, the gifts were a result of the annual Caring Tree Chapel on December 11th. During this seasonal chapel service, students attending Riverside Presbyterian Day School brought forward the gifts their classes collected over the last few weeks to bring joy and love to families. The gifts were brought to the church's alter and blessed by clergy.
LSS Youth Services Program Manager, Jean Emile, alongside a dedicated team, delivered these precious gifts to the families on December 12th.
The Youth Services Program at LSS offers invaluable educational services to refugee youth attending school in Jacksonville. Students have access to after-school tutoring, enriching field trips, and inspiring guest speakers focusing on career development.
In January 2024, LSS youth services is extending its reach to assist middle-school aged students in addition to high school students.
Learn more about how we help refugees in Jacksonville by visiting out Refugee Services program page.
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