Hazel Parkers Get “Grinched”
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Dec. 19, 2021)
Hazel Park, MI – When COVID-19 put a pause on holiday food baskets in Hazel Park, an unlikely ally stepped in to help fill some of the gap – a grumpy, furry, green creature known as The Grinch.
In the Dr. Seuss fable the Grinch discovers the true meaning of Christmas and his heart grows larger and full of love. In Hazel Park that spirit comes alive thanks to volunteers at Hazel Park Youth Assistance and the businesses who have supported them, who helped the Grinch deliver packages to families with children.
Inside bags decorated in Grinchy-style, the youngsters found surprises like pudding, applesauce, cookies, candy canes, a puzzle, cards etc. There were also gift cards to Little Caesars.
Thanks to donations from Hazel Park firefighters, teachers, Wilson and Wilson Law, Kozy Lounge, City employees, and City Councilmembers, the volunteers were able to “Grinch” 120 families this year, topping last year’s effort by 20%.
Beverly Hinton, Chair of Community Outreach and past President, said she drove around looking for kindergarten yard signs and toys in yards, and asked a few people to refer families with younger kids. She rallied the community last year behind the idea. “I felt our families looked forward to the holiday baskets for years, and now it was another thing affected by COVID,” Hinton said. “The community needed some joy.”
Hazel Park Councilperson and Youth Assistance Chair Andy LeCureaux said “The holidays are for most people a time of cheer and good fun with friends and family. But it isn’t like that for everyone. Hazel Park Youth Assistance volunteers know this and wanted to spread some cheer and fun throughout the city. I could see the love and caring in the faces of the volunteers who just want others to know that people really do care. Volunteers are what makes Hazel Park a special place.”
The pictures of the Grinch have also been spreading delight one, with sightings throughout the city.
“It is overwhelming heartwarming,” Hinton said. “The smiles on faces are priceless.”