The Beacon Church in New Hyde Park hosted its Annual Christmas Fest on Saturday, Dec. 6 with games, crafts, holiday snacks, a full petting zoo and a photo booth. The Christmas show included music and carols by a live band and an interactive show for kids.
Daniel Rivera, a United States Marine from 2002-2009, greeted the kids as they made personal holiday cards to be sent to soldiers overseas.
“Beacon hosts events like Christmas Fest as a way of reaching our local communities and extending a helping hand towards those in need who are further away,” said Pastor Robert Kelly.
Beacon collaborated with Pay It Forward With Jackie (PFWJ), a volunteer organization, to collect donated, filled stockings at the event to be delivered to children in hospitals or homeless shelters throughout December. The organization was co-founded by Joanna Delgado and Cyndi Poeggel. It was inspired by Cyndi’s young daughter, Jackie, after she was diagnosed with an adult form of leukemia not commonly seen in children.
“We at PFWJ are beyond excited and grateful to be working with Beacon in their efforts to let others know about the magic created by the dreams of one little girl to pay it forward,” said Joanne Delgado,co-founder of PFWJ.
