BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Holiday cheer arrived Saturday as InfluenceU hosted its third annual Christmas dinner in Battle Creek.
Beginning at 4 p.m., the event catering to families with children or those who may be displaced aimed to share food and celebration with the community, especially those experiencing homelessness.
“I can’t even imagine, I mean I know things are difficult for everybody, but for some of us it’s really a challenge,” organizer Shannon Patrick said. “So when I see everybody happy or from something that I did, it really makes me feel good.”
Those who attended the free event could partake in dinner, professional photos with Santa’s God-Daughter “Shanta-Claus,” gift giveaways for children, crafts, activities and more, organizers said.
“We did a toy drive and we had a lot of donations from Toys for Tots, the Urban League and just community members,” Patrick said. “So we’re going to give away toys and some clothing items, and then along the wall, you’ll see like cookie decorating, crafts and things of that nature. Just festive you know.”
This event ran until 6 p.m. at Noir Lux Venue at 226 Capital Avenue NE in Battle Creek.