AdventHealth Parker Christmas Store serves close to 1,000 people

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Community People

AdventHealth Parker is once again proud to support the Parker community this holiday season through the annual Christmas Store, which provides free gifts to families.

The idea behind the Christmas Store first formed in 2011 with a simple question: how do we live out our mission in the community? After conversations with social workers at a nearby school, it was clear families needed support around the holidays. Through a partnership between AdventHealth Parker and Newday Adventist Church, the Christmas Store was born.

Families were invited to shop for free at the store December 7-10. Children were assigned a personal shopper who helped them pick out gifts for themselves and the rest of their family. Volunteers not only supported kids with choosing gifts, but they also wrapped the presents for them and brought them out to their car. Parents were invited to enjoy refreshments, food, and live music while waiting for their children to shop.

“For the kids, they get to experience the joy of giving to others. They really put a lot of thought into what their siblings, mom, and dad really want,” said Shawna Sajdak, Director of Community Outreach at Newday Adventist Church.

In all, AdventHealth Parker and Newday were able to provide gifts for nearly 1,000 people this year. With support from presenting sponsor Cardel Homes, the AdventHealth Parker Foundation was able to increase its support of the Christmas Store to $22,000 in 2024. The growing population in our hospital’s community means a growing need, requiring more from philanthropy.

“The Christmas Store is a cherished tradition at AdventHealth Parker and requires philanthropic support. Continued donations from our team members and community supporters allow the hospital and the church to make this unique tradition possible,” says AdventHealth Parker Chief Development Officer Harmony Furlong.

While this year’s event is over, work for the 2025 Christmas Store will begin immediately.

“It takes a village of people working hard throughout the entire year to pull this off,” said Shawna.

If you would like to support the AdventHealth Parker Christmas Store, you can make a donation here.

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