BALTIMORE (WMAR) — While Santa is spreading cheer to good little boys and girls one organization in our area is spreading cheer in a different way.
The Weinberg Housing and Resource Center, operated by Catholic Charities of Baltimore, made sure those less fortunate in our city had something to unwrap Monday night.
"It's good to know that there's never a point when things are just lost there's always something there that you can step up and take advantage of," said resident Ryan Scurlock.
Willie Mae Hollie, told WMAR 2 News, "I’m just blessed. it's just amazing because it wasn't for the Weinberg, I wouldn't have gotten as far as I am today."
But Monday’s event wasn't just about receiving for these residents, it's about hope and another chance.
"When I think about caring and sharing it makes me want to do the same and be able to one day build myself up to helping the same person in the same place I am today," said Hollie.
It also served as a reminder of how far many of these residents have come.
"I’ve been in an out of shelters but I had to learn it wasn't the people places and things it was me who makes myself better," said Hollie.
Hollie may have dealt with life's hard knocks but she's now empowered; the generosity she feels inspired her to recite part of a poem she wrote when she first got to the center.
“Don’t let your problems get you down don't let the situation make you frown don't let the hard times get the best of you.”
Other residents were just grateful that the cookies, desserts and presents and festivities took them back to a simpler time.
"With all the festivities, the happiness, the gifts it brings back a lot of memories, you know, the excitement that you had especially when you were a kid," said Sudaniel Louis.
"It's a feeling of happiness a feeling of encouragement it makes you want to keep going and pushing forward instead of staying stagnant."
The holiday joy brought much needed hope of new opportunities and beginnings.
"There still is joy and love and that people really do still care about them and that they can experience some of the light and hope of the season," said Amy Collier, Division Director of Catholic Charities.
