(Little Rock, KATV) — Little Rock organizations came together today to give back to the community for the holiday season.
These community advocates are focused on making a difference while spreading Christmas joy.
Organizations like the Pettus Foundation, Certified Pies and others teamed up to help Uptown Barbershop host their first toy drive.
Thier outreach included food, gifts, haircuts, and more.
“We’re just trying to bring the community together on something positive. You know… And we want them to come out and see that… Everybody not doing bad things. Some people are actually helping the community,” Uptown Barbershop, Owner, Antwon Smith said.
Community members were able to receive items to assist with holiday needs and network with others in the Little Rock area.
“Basically, everything we are doing is just to help better the community. A lot of people talk about what they do and what they gone do. We actually put something in play and actually start… You know… Working towards it,” Smith said.
Sims Strategic Mentoring even brought youth to help with the event, sharing the importance of outreach.
“It was important to bring them out here to show them how to be a part of the community… How to be able to get involved and what’s important in the community,”Sims Strategic Mentoring Program, Founder, Walter Sims said.
The drive was inclusive to everyone this holiday season with Chanan Ministries giving back while sharing resources for children and adults with special needs.
“This community is come than that, it’s people that really care and I feel like that’s what my ministry and also other people’s in here. We’re trying to get us all to come together as one,” Chanan Ministries, Founder, Cynthia Camp said.
Each organization hopes others will follow the example of cheerful giving.
“I mean this is the season of giving, so we all just need to come and give a helping hand. That’s all I’ve got to say. Be joyful,” The Pettus Foundation, Founder, Kris Pettus said.
Organizers say they hope to continue changing lives even after the Christmas season concludes.