Holiday event in Youngstown aims to help victims of violence heal
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YOUNGSTOWN - Perhaps the two biggest Christmas gifts Guy Burney wants to distribute are long-lasting, powerful "H" words: hope and healing.
"We want to go far for those who have lost loved ones to violent crimes or homicides. We want to bring hope and understanding, and that the community sees them and will be there with them to help them heal," Burney, who runs the Community Initiative to Reduce Violence program, said.
That was the main thrust behind Friday morning's Hope for the Holidays gift giveaway for families affected by violence, which began at the Eugenia Atkinson Recreation Center, 903 Otis St., near downtown.
The event featured a caravan of vehicles from the Youngstown police and fire departments, a Western Reserve Transit Authority bus and others that left the center to distribute gifts at the recipients' homes.
Presents included toys, doll sets, bicycles, clothing, sleds, board games, coats and baby items such as diapers and face wipes.
Ten families were the recipients of the gifts from the holiday-themed gathering, though a few of them were out of town, so those families will be served a bit later, Burney noted.
"We believe in the power of community and the positive impact it can have on the lives of those affected by violence," he said. "The Hope for the Holidays gift giveaway is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering resilience and unity within our community."
Also on hand Friday were representatives from area mental health agencies to help those who may have sought counseling or grief support, Burney added.
"This speaks to how we gather at a time of need for our community. The families need to know we love and care for them, and that we're here for them," said Mayor Jamael Tito Brown, who played Santa Claus and received a front-row seat in a firetruck.
The effort also will spread Christmas joy and cheer to people whose lives have been marred by tragedy, Brown added.
"It's important to bring joy to all and pay it forward," Clarence Jennings, a private donor to the event, said.
Jennings, who worked in tandem with his 10-year-old son, Clarence Jennings III, to fill the WRTA bus with wrapped gifts, added he was happy to take part in the CIRV effort.
Burney also articulated perhaps his biggest Christmas wish by saying that senseless violence that has plagued the city and many people's lives must stop, and that it's imperative that time is taken to show care to others.
"We must do better," he added.
Burney thanked the Susie E. Barnes Foundation, Loud 102.3 FM, Youngstown Rotary and longtime Mahoning Valley businessman and former Oakland A's baseball player Herb Washington for their donations to Friday's giveaway. He also expressed gratitude toward Ella Blackburn and Jennings, both of whom contributed as private donors.
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