By China Boynton
On Saturday, December 17 a toy drive and grocery giveaway were held at Pompano Community Park for residents who might be struggling to feed their families during the holidays. The charitable giveaways started at 10 am when local residents could pull up and get their cars filled with groceries like fish, vegetables, and other healthy items to last throughout the holiday. The food drive continued throughout the day along with activities such as a bounce house and games for the children like red rover, a relay race, and tug of war.
While the weather didn’t hold up and the day remained overcast with light showers, spirits were high as DJ Ivory P. from 103.5 the beat radio station played songs as the children danced.
One of the companies who hosted the event was Jessica Williams from the online platform southpromo.com. Williams’ company Southpromo.com host monthly charitable food drives in different cities across south Florida however this time she decided to team up with First class promotions, Demesmin and Dover Law firm, and the city of Pompano Beach to bring toys for children in need and food for families with food insecurity in the community.
“Growing up my mother always had me volunteering so now as an adult it’s just in me,” said Williams. “I believe that we are all just one paycheck away from being homeless especially since Covid hit.” Along with her charitable nature, Williams is a successful businesswoman in marketing, hosting events with Kodak Black and other local celebrities but her heart is in giving. “A lot of people have lost their jobs and homes so at the end of the day if I have access to free food I’m going to give back because it is the least I can do for a community that has supported me.”
Along with southpromo.com were volunteers from the fire department and Broward Sheriffs’ office who was on sight helping out with traffic and public safety.
Jocelyn Jackson who is the PR specialist for first-class promotions, hosted and coordinated the games for the children while CEO Norvil Howard handed out food and managed the toy drive.
“I think the event turned out awesome because we gave away 300 bags of free food and we also had 276 families registered for the toy drive,” said Jackson. “Even though we got a little rain we will be able to brighten the holidays for the children registered to receive toys.”
Howard is a local business owner and entrepreneur who frequentlyhosts different events such as an upcoming car show event featuring hip-hop artist Jeezy in January.
“I was born and raised in Pompano so whatever our community needs I’m going to do my best to help provide,” said Howard.
Law firm Demesmin and Dover did their part financially by donating $7,500 to purchase the toys for the event.
“We acted strictly as a sponsor in providing the funds for the toys and small secondary items with branding,” said Brianna Myrie who is the marketing coordinator for the local law firm. “South Florida is home to the partners so they try to do whatever they can to give back to the community that continues to support them.”
The excitement is palpable for next year’s event so in order to sign up you can register on Instagram @jocelynharris129 to find out more information on other events visit Southpromo.com.
