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The Charlotte County Christmas Parents organization accomplished what some said could not be done.

In a year in which many are hurting financially, the organization provided toys and books to more than 200 county children during its toy distribution day Saturday, Dec. 19.

“Despite every obstacle thrown our way with COVID-19 during this holiday season, the Christmas Parents was a huge success because of the generosity of our community members donating gifts, money, and their time to volunteer,” organization member Monique Williams said. “The process was smooth from beginning to end with each volunteer ensuring COVID-19 measures were followed – from social distancing, limiting shoppers in the building, mask enforcement, and temperature screening. 

The distribution was held at the Bacon District Volunteer Fire Department, and with the help of businesses, volunteers, students and teachers from Randolph-Henry High School, parents were able to pick out toys for their children.

“Nothing seems to be immune from COVID-19, not even Christmas Parents,” member Kay Pierantoni said. “Yet we know the pandemic has been hard on everyone, particularly the underprivileged children.”

Just last month, Pierantoni said funds were desperately needed and was unsure if the task at hand could be done.

“The pandemic has caused many things to be canceled or scaled back this year, but faithful volunteers and generous donors would not let it defeat the efforts of the Charlotte County Christmas Parents,” Pierantoni said. “The recent mandate limiting only 10 in the building nor the bitter cold stopped the distribution. Much has changed for children this year but this Christmas they will once again feel the love of their community. The beauty of the holiday season lives on.”