A surprise of holiday cheer unfolded in North Philadelphia this Sunday as Temple University’s Department of Public Safety hosted its 28th annual holiday party, bringing joy to roughly 300 children and their families. The event, held on campus, served as a festive gathering where gifts were distributed and community members had the chance to meet the university’s police officers. The celebration marked another successful year of the department’s outreach program, aiming to strengthen ties between the institution and the neighborhood it serves.
Gifts for a Generation
Temple police partnered with Toys for Tots and several other organizations to collect around 1,500 gifts for the 300 kids on hand. Chief Jennifer Griffin explained the motivation behind the initiative, saying, “To give back, to bring people together. We know it’s been a really challenging year for a lot of families in our community,” she added. “We want to start the holiday season off with fun festivities, lots of entertainment and then at the end they get a gift and a book for the holidays.”
Bridging the Gap
Officer Leroy Wimberly shared his perspective on the program’s impact. “We are into giving back and we want them to understand us as well as us understanding them. Bridging that gap,” he said. The officer emphasized the importance of mutual respect and open communication between law‑enforcement personnel and residents, especially in a community that has faced many challenges over the past year.
Volunteers in Action
Volunteers from the university joined the effort and spent three days wrapping all the gifts for the event. One volunteer remarked, “There’s so many gifts here, more than I could have ever thought,” noting the overwhelming generosity of donors. “It’s just such a great opportunity,” the volunteer added, underscoring the sense of shared purpose that permeated the day.
A Special Surprise
Among the many families present was Johshonna Sexton, a single mother of three who has endured a particularly difficult year. The university’s team presented her with a grocery gift card and a computer for her family. “Shocked, grateful, appreciative,” Sexton said, her voice reflecting the relief and gratitude she felt. Her 11‑year‑old daughter echoed the sentiment, describing Sunday as “one of the best days ever.” “It makes me feel heart warmed,” the daughter said, her eyes shining with excitement.
Community Celebration
The party also featured a range of entertainment options designed to delight children and adults alike. From live music to interactive games, the event created a festive atmosphere that encouraged families to mingle and enjoy one another’s company. The presence of police officers in a friendly, approachable setting helped demystify law‑enforcement roles and fostered a sense of safety and camaraderie.
A Legacy of Service
This year marks the 28th iteration of the holiday party, a tradition that has grown steadily since its inception. Each year, the Department of Public Safety expands its outreach, partnering with local charities and organizations to ensure that every child in the community receives a meaningful gift. The continued success of the program reflects the department’s unwavering commitment to service and community engagement.
Key Takeaways
- Temple University’s 28th holiday party distributed 1,500 gifts to 300 North Philadelphia children.
- The event featured partnerships with Toys for Tots, volunteers, and local organizations.
- A special gift for single mom Johshonna Sexton highlighted the program’s personal impact.
The day ended on a high note, with laughter echoing across the campus and a renewed sense of unity between Temple University and the North Philadelphia community. As the holiday season approaches, the department’s efforts stand as a testament to the power of collective goodwill and community partnership.
