Christmas Community Nights: From Giveaway to Relationship-Building

Each December, Christian Friends of New Americans hosts a special event to supply needed household and hygiene products to our immigrant/refugee friends in the nearby St. Louis community. The move to the new 5515 location on South Grand Boulevard has given the CFNA staff a unique opportunity to expand this particular program to include a more diverse experience for new Americans to receive not only the material gifts from donors, but invite local organizations and churches to advise our refugee friends how to insulate their homes and to better manage their finances.

Though this event was formerly called the “Christmas Giveaway”, the event was renamed “Christmas Community Nights” to encourage stronger relationships among refugees and immigrants. This event took place from December 16th through 19th at the newly designated Peace Center. Each night, a different group of immigrants was invited to shop for household & hygiene products with the assistance of a volunteer. Individuals enjoyed cookies, hot drinks, music, and friendly greetings from staff and volunteers.

Resettling to a new country has many challenges for new arrivals, including financial. Providing necessities to our friends helps lower expenses and gives an opportunity for CFNA to express the love of Christ to those less fortunate.

Three individuals were invited to respond to two questions of what this experience has meant to them personally: “How has the Christmas Community Nights been a blessing to you?” and “In what way(s) has this evening helped you to connect with others?”

Satya, a young man from India, responded, “Community Night was fun and gave me a sense of belonging and warmth during the holiday season. Being away from family, this event helped me feel supported and welcome. This event helped me meet new people, have meaningful conversations.”

Zarifa, a refugee from Afghanistan, shared, “ People wear new clothes and the whole family celebrates together, cooking delicious foods and having fun together.”

Katherine, a volunteer with CFNA, reflected, “It’s a way to serve in the local community and have a better understanding of what is happening in our neighborhood. It’s such a blessing to meet other volunteers and staff. The kindness and joy of the Lord is such a part of the week.”

Planning and preparing an event like this takes significant amounts of time, energy, and group effort. This year’s Christmas Community Nights could not have been possible without the support of donors, local churches, schools, businesses, and volunteers who gave their hearts, talent, and time. Thank you, too, to those who support this organization on a continuous basis. May God bless you!

By Gary Schaefer
Operations Associate