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There might not be any snow on the ground but with everything going on in the world, Detroiters could definitely use a little Christmas Spirit.
The Potential Foundation will host its second annual “Christmas in July” charity event July 25 from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. The Detroit non-profit will visit three neighborhoods (Fitzgerald, Seven Mile-Rouge and Nolan) dropping off gifts to children and families.
“We created Christmas in July last year as a positive way to engage with the youth, partnering with the Boys and Girls Club,” Bayete Milhomme said. The event started as a bike giveaway because the group wanted to make sure kids had the opportunity to use them in the summer months. The group was able to pass out dozens of bikes to local children and provide free haircuts to the community.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers had to pivot their planning for this year’s event. They originally planned to follow last year’s model of a big party at a local Boys and Girls Club with toys handed out in person. Instead, the foundation is following the drive-by trend that has become popular for celebrations since health officials have stated that social distancing aids in slowing the spread of coronavirus.
The festivities will kick off Saturday, July 25 at 11 a.m. at Ella Fitzgerald Park (16625 Prairie St, Detroit, MI 48221) in partnership with the U.S. Census Bureau. It will be the only static location of the day and families will be encouraged to visit the park to pick up presents and fill out the 2020 Census. They’ll then move, parade-style, to the E. Outer Drive and Dequindre area at 1:30 p.m. to pass out toys. The final neighborhood, W. 7 Mile and Telegraph, will receive their parade at 4 p.m.
Gift donations are still being accepted by the foundation. New, unwrapped toys and monetary donations are welcomed. A toy drive will be held July 17 from 4-8 p.m. and July 19 from 1-4 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club at 4242 Collingwood St., Detroit, MI 48204.
ABOUT THE POTENTIAL FOUNDATION
The Potential Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of families and communities in low income areas. The Potential Foundation provides and promotes personal enrichment for the youth of Detroit and facilities opportunities for the youth to maximize their potential.
