CHICAGO – A community activist is spreading holiday spirit to support local families who have been impacted by violence this year.
Pastor Donovan Price is recognized in the community for his dedication to helping families affected by gun violence, offering them vital resources. During the holiday season, he hosts a toy drive to spread Christmas cheer.
“I’m overjoyed. It’s the first time I’ve got to see them in a little while like this,” Shaonnete Ringgold said.
For Ringgold, it lifts her spirits to see her kids and grandchildren smiling and enjoying opening presents ahead of this holiday season.
Dozens of Christmas gifts donated for children at Stroger Hospital
“This is one of the best Christmases, not only for them, but for me, too. All of this year, I could not see,” Ringgold said.
She had lost vision in one eye, but recently underwent surgery and is overjoyed to be able to see again. However, this time of year remains difficult for Ringgold as she still grieves the loss of her son, who lost his life to gun violence in 2017.