Christmas Party for Newcomers

It was all smiles and laughter as 300 adults and children were treated to a celebration of Christmas by our Newcomer Network’s Navigator Program. Sister Sharlet Wagner, executive director of the Newcomer Network, opened the festive party by thanking volunteers and donors. She noted that the guests “have many struggles. But they continue to have faith and hope, and they believe that things can get better.” The evening, she said, was a chance for the families to “relax, have fun and to forget their struggles for one evening.” Shelf-stable food, a bagged meal, gifts for the children, warm coats and socks were available for those who have been in the D.C. metro area for less than a year. All items offered to the guests were donated. Thank you to donors and volunteers St. Rose of Lima Parish, the Kaplan family, Veronica Cruz, Obsidian Global, St. John the Evangelist Church, Daughters of Wisdom and Connelly School of the Holy Child. Photos by Chris Williams/Zoeica Images