Numerous volunteers participate in Light Orlando’s holiday service initiative

ORLANDO, Fla. – Volunteers filled Edgewater High School on Saturday evening for Light Orlando’s fourth annual community Christmas service project.

The event is to bring holiday joy to children in need through the Salvation Army Angel Tree program.

The Gauthier family attended the event for the first time, joining others in stuffing stockings with toys and toiletries.

“We are volunteering our time as a family to give back to the community,” they said.

Program Director Troy Wright explained the impact to the community.

“We hope that when a child receives the stocking, they feel a sense of hope and joy they wouldn’t have otherwise felt,” Wright said.

Volunteers like the Gauthier family said they were inspired by the scale of the event and the opportunity to make a difference.

A family member expressed surprise at the size of the venue, mentioning that it was larger than expected. Additionally, they encouraged those who have not volunteered before to consider the experience, believing it to be a great idea.

Wright emphasized the community’s role in the project’s success.

“When we gather for large service projects like this, people come together, regardless of different ethnic, cultural, or political backgrounds, for a common cause,” Wright said.

The event’s goal was to prepare donations for 2,000 children in Central Florida, ensuring they experience a brighter holiday season.

“Everybody deserves to have a great Christmas,” Wright said.