RICHMOND, Va. — The holiday season is fast approaching, and for Tara Sample and the ThisAbility organization, the countdown to their annual Christmas giveaway is underway. Sample, who leads the initiative, says it's a highlight of the year for her.
"I love Christmas, so this is my favorite event of the year," Sample said. "We’re collecting a variety of toys for all ages, ranging from newborns to 18-year-olds."
ThisAbility aims to assist at least 350 families in the Richmond area through the giveaway.
To help with their efforts, the group has partnered with local businesses and sponsors, including former University of North Carolina basketball star Armando Bacot.
Now a professional basketball player, Bacot, a Richmond native, expressed his strong connection to the cause, particularly as it supports children with disabilities.
"It really means a lot to be able to give back to a community that gave so much to me," Bacot said. "Children with disabilities sometimes get overlooked, so I think it’s important to highlight them during this holiday season and give back to them."
Despite the ongoing support, the organization is still in need of donations, particularly toys and clothes for teenagers.
The ThisAbility team, along with their volunteers, are asking for the community’s help in making the giveaway a success.
Contributions can be made through donations or by volunteering for the organization’s “Day with Santa” event on Nov. 30.
"The more helping hands we get, the more people we can bless," ThisAbility event logistics manager Clinton Jones said.
Bacot also shared his hope that many children will experience the joy of the season through the event.
"Just give back to them and put a smile on their face," Bacot said. "It's nothing more important, especially during the holiday season."
Several drop-off locations for donations are available around the area:
- KORE Mortgage - 1266 Alverser Plaza, Midlothian, VA 23113
- Golds Gym Colonial Heights - 1823 Southpark Blvd, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
- ThisAbility - 135 W Tabb St, Petersburg, VA 23803
- Soul Rebel Restaurant - 106 W Old St, Petersburg, VA 23803
For more information or to schedule a donation time, Tara can be reached at 804-926-0801.
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