Christmas with Community Heroes held their 15th annual event on December 8th, 2023. Local community leaders and individuals came together to take children shopping for Christmas presents at Walmart.
Christmas with Community Heroes founder Larry Jones told us that, “I grew up poor, and I know what it’s like to get up Christmas morning without a gift. I was blessed to get a job with the Sheriff’s Office and I was making decent money. I was able to give back to the community and that is what I wanted to do. I started the program in 2008 with my own money and served 11 kids back then and today we are up to 118 kids.”
The rain didn’t deter heroes or families from attending the event, and according to Larry Jones, this is the first year it has ever rained on them.
Teresa Rizzo, Executive Director of the Flagler Education Foundation was among the many Heroes in attendance to shop with local children. “This is my first year doing it! Since we have been working with Lacy this year, she has me and multiple team members from my office as well. This is the best part of Christmas, making kids dreams come true.”
Schoolboard member Colleen Conklin, Superintendent Moore, Emergency Management Director Lord, and many other officials, leaders and business owners were present at the event to shop with the children. Many of the children were excited and came prepared with lists.
