With only days until Christmas, Robbin Johnson, a stay-at-home mother of three in Verona, Virginia, ensuring that children in her community wake up to gifts under the tree. Her initiative, Christmas Palooza, has grown into a heartwarming tradition of generosity and kindness.
Johnson understands the challenges families face during the holidays. “My children have been in need quite a bit. I’m a stay-at-home mom, so I know how it is,” she shared. Despite her own struggles, Johnson has spent the past two years collecting toys to help families in her community. “It feels good to put smiles on families and children’s faces,” she said.
https://x.com/29NewsWVIR/status/1870914752383221971
What began as a small effort has grown far beyond Johnson’s expectations. This year, with the support of her church and pastor, Melinda Gartzke, Johnson helped 31 families provide gifts for their children. Her daughter, Angel, expressed pride in her mother’s work. “She didn’t think it would be this successful,” Angel said. “It turned into something way bigger than what it was planned to be.”
Pastor Gartzke highlighted the impact of Johnson’s efforts on families who were struggling to make ends meet. “Most of these families had to prioritize basic needs like gas and rent, so Christmas gifts weren’t in the picture,” she said. “It’s incredible to see how one person or one small church can make such a big difference.”
The event’s success relied on community contributions and volunteer efforts. Johnson’s initiative provided not only gifts but also hope to families who might have otherwise gone without during the holiday season.
Looking ahead, Johnson hopes to expand Christmas Palooza to reach even more families in need, continuing her mission to bring joy and support to her community during the holidays.
