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The Edmundite Missions typically host a large community Christmas Party each year, complete with gifts, food and even an appearance from Santa and his elves.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, throwing such an event was impossible this year but Chad McEachern, President and C.E.O. of the Edmundite Missions, believed it was important to do something to celebrate the season and ensure the children served by the Missions have a merry Christmas, so the missions gave out warm meals and age-appropriate goodie bags to local children at the Edmundite Center of Hope at 1107 Griffin Avenue.

“While we couldn’t safely hold the annual event this year, I wanted to ensure our kids knew we hadn’t forgotten about them and make sure they had at least a little something under the tree for Christmas,” said McEachern.

McEachern said the lives of those served by the Missions, especially children, are filled with trials and struggle, which is why the organization goes out of its way to provide them a good Christmas.

“I have always loved opening Bosco up for the annual Community Christmas Party and seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces as they get their pictures taken with Santa. When I hear them asking Santa for a job for dad or for money to pay the light bill, it breaks my heart but reminds me that children really do embody the true spirit of Christmas.” McEachern said.

According to McEachern, the event was a success – the Missions prepared 1,000 goodie bags to distribute to the community.

“We were so excited that so many children came to our event on Saturday,” said McEachern. “With each goodie bag we handed out, you could see in the twinkle of their eyes that there were big smiles behind those masks. Everyone stayed safe and distant and we managed to bring a bit of the spirit of our usual Community Christmas Party in a different way. I’m very proud of the Missions team that always does whatever it takes to serve our community.”