Phil Ammann
Volunteer work may be a year-round calling, but it’s the holiday season when most Floridians are aware of others in need.
That’s why Volunteer Florida, the Governor’s lead agency for service and volunteerism statewide, promotes the theme of holiday service for the month of December.
In a new email to supporters, Volunteer Florida highlights one holiday-themed program, the award-winning “A Visit from St. Nicholas” from HandsOn Jacksonville.
“Visit,” now in its 13th year, is a program to provide backpacks and school supplies to local students in need. Volunteers deliver the bags – filled with books, toys and personal items – to each student’s desk the night before “Discovery Day,” held Dec. 4 this year.
During Discovery Day, volunteers read to the students, with a special appearance by St. Nicholas.
The annual program serves about 7,500 elementary school children in 14 challenged schools throughout Duval, St. Johns, Baker and Clay counties. For some children, it will be the only gift they receive for Christmas, as well as the first book they have ever owned.
“This spirit of service is one of the things that make the holiday season shine even brighter in Florida,” the email says. “Thank you, HandsOn Jacksonville, for all that you do to #ServeFL. “
Florida rarely experiences the trappings of a “traditional” Christmas – cold weather and snow in particular – but with programs like “Visit,” there is never a shortage of good holiday cheer.
