After organizers of 'The Christmas in the Park' event announced Thursday, November 29, 2018 they needed to raise $10,000 over the next few days, local businesses jumped into action to help.
Friday, November 30, Raising Canes announced it would give 10% of the goal by giving $1,000. In a joint statement, Raising Cane's said, "Raising Cane's loves to support the local community !"
Monday December 3, Regions Bank opened a special fund at all of its locations so that anyone can go in any Regions Bank and give any amount to the "Christmas in the Park Fund" to help reach the $10,000.
The City of Hattiesburg says it's "definitely blessed" to have this kind of involvement in the city. Councilman Nick Brown said, "I believe students coming together to give back to the community of Hattiesburg is a very kind act and blessing to our community.”
Some of the Executive Committee Members such as Brandon Dillion Ed.S, Reggie Taylor, and Jane Brockway, are very excited about both the support and event itself.
Jane Brockway, a professor at William Carey University, says “It’s awesome to be in an area with businesses like Regions who are willing to support our children by opening a fund anyone can donate to!”
“Lending a helping hand to the kids in our community is a personal mandate,” says Reggie Taylor, Dean of Students at Antonelli College.
Brandon Dillion, Director of International Admissions at William Carey University says its an “honor” to add some “Christmas Magic” for local kids. “The community has blessed William Carey University and it is a blessing to have the opportunity to give back in some small way,”
Prominent community leader Derrian Moye, known in the community as Mr. Hattiesburg, who was honored by the University of Southern Mississippi as the 'Hometown Hero', says by Friday, December 7, 2018, he believes more than $10,000 will be raised.
"Everybody wants to help with this historic event in making sure every child in our area has a gift for Christmas. There are so many businesses, organizations, and individuals reaching out to help my fellow classmates and I."
Once $10,000 is raised, college students from William Carey University, The University of Southern Mississippi, and Antonelli College will come together to buy clothing, shoes, and toys for 100's of kids in the Pine Belt.
The Christmas in the Park event is set for Thursday, December 20, 2018 at Town Square Park, 100 Main St, in Downtown Hattiesburg, MS.
For more information, you may email: ChristmasInThePark2018@yahoo.com or call 601.861.5800.