Unhoused families get much-needed Christmas cheer

The Family Life Ministry at Fenimore Street United Methodist Church (FSUMC) in Brooklyn on Sat., Dec. 7 brought much-needed, early Christmas cheer to several unhoused families in New York City, as the committee hosted its Annual Christmas Party for families in shelters.

Families from homeless shelters in Brooklyn and Staten Island – including Hospitality House, Urban Transitional Family Center and Staten Island Family Transition Center – were treated, along with walk-ins from the neighboring community, to a sumptuous lunch, as well as with donations of clothing and shoes, and other gifts.

They also participated in several activities, such as tug-of-war, sack races and tattoo parlor, after which winners were able to choose a prize.

“Our visitors were served fruit, full lunch, cake and ice cream, and an assortment of drinks and water,” Antiguan-born Joycelyn King, a committee member, as well as the church’s assistant Sunday School superintendent, told Caribbean Life. “Everyone who requested a take-home dinner was gladly obliged.

“There was lightly-used clothing to choose from,” added the retired public school teacher in Brooklyn. “The adults were most grateful for the items of clothing and shoes.  They also received donations of socks and shoes from a member of the Lions Club.

“At the end of the evening, all adults received a package of personal care items; teenagers received a care package, too,” King continued. “All the children received toys and a blanket. Babies also received a specially-prepared packet.

“To God be the Glory for the work of this ministry,” she said. “The team came together and made this happen for the sake of these children, who were very appreciative. May God continue to use us to bless others!”

Marlene Ferguson – a Trinidadian-born retired registered nurse at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and University Hospital of Brooklyn, who heads the Family Life Committee – described the celebration as “great,” but added: “Unfortunately, our hearts were broken as we remember our (recently) departed members Minerva Beaton, Cecille “Peggy” White and Pearl Douglas. They will never be forgotten.

“My heart was overwhelmed, despite the sadness, because the children brought an exuberance of joy and excitement, dashing and prancing around like Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer,” she also told Caribbean Life.

“As I look back at all that we have accomplished this year, I look forward with great anticipation for a bountiful year, 2025, (Exodus 36:3-5), when we will have to restrain the people from bringing gifts,” Ferguson continued.

The church’s pastor, the Rev. Roger Jackson, was also present throughout the celebration, participating in activities with the families and giving them, as always, a very cheerful FSUMC welcome.

“It was beautiful for all those in attendance,” Gaynor Martinez, the Belizean-born recreational coordinator at Urban Transitional Family Center on Saratoga Avenue in Brownsville, Brooklyn, told Caribbean Life. “The children and parents were well-pleased.

“We look forward to going to their events (at FSUMC),” she added. “They are very generous and warm. We appreciate them. They’ve been a partner for our facility for years.

“We appreciate them because they really go out for the families,” Martinez continued.