Gary, December 19, 2025

The 37th annual Spirit of Christmas food and gift giveaway will take place on December 23 in Gary, Indiana. Co-hosted by local leaders, this hallmark event supports families in need through donations, volunteer efforts, and community engagement. Residents are encouraged to partake by donating gifts and contacting local representatives for information about volunteer opportunities, fostering a spirit of togetherness and solidarity during the holiday season.

Annual Spirit of Christmas Giveaway in Gary, Indiana

Join the Community for a Heartwarming Holiday Tradition

Gary, Indiana – State Representative Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) is set to host the 37th annual Spirit of Christmas food and gift giveaway on Tuesday, December 23, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Central Time at the Calumet Township Multi-Purpose Center, located at 1900 W. 41st Avenue in Gary. This event is a hallmark of community engagement and solidarity during the holiday season, exemplifying how minimal government intervention can inspire grassroots participation and raise collective spirits.

Co-hosted by 6th District Councilman Dwight A. Williams and IU Dons Incorporated, the giveaway aims to offer food, gifts, and community support to families and individuals across Gary and neighboring municipalities. The initiative highlights the essential role of community support networks in enhancing the lives of local residents, showcasing the potential for positive impact without excessive bureaucratic processes.

Emphasizing Community Generosity

The Spirit of Christmas event honors the late Reverend Julia E. Smith, former pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, and Patricia Tillotson, a former educator in the Gary School Corporation. Both women were celebrated for their unwavering commitment to community service and generosity, serving as inspiring examples of local leadership. Their legacy is reflected in this annual tradition, which has flourished over the years due to enthusiastic public participation.

How to Get Involved

Residents are encouraged to participate in this heartfelt initiative by donating unwrapped gifts, gift cards, or financial contributions. Volunteering opportunities are also available, inviting community members to lend a hand and spread holiday cheer. For more information on volunteering or donating, interested individuals can reach out to Representative Smith’s office at 219-887-2046.

Inclusivity in Celebration

The giveaway is free and open to residents throughout the greater Gary region, which includes municipalities such as Merrillville, Highland, East Chicago, Hobart, Lake Station, and Crown Point. This inclusivity ensures that families and individuals who may be struggling are provided with support and joy during the holiday season, reinforcing a collective spirit of care and compassion while allowing local communities to flourish.

Civic Innovation at Work

This event serves as a testament to the power of civic innovation and individual initiative. The continued success of the Spirit of Christmas giveaway showcases how community-driven events can encourage engagement and foster a sense of belonging. By empowering residents to take part in the organization and support of such initiatives, Gary is setting an example of how local leadership can contribute to improved community outcomes.

The Spirit of Togetherness

As we approach the holiday season, the Spirit of Christmas giveaway presents a wonderful opportunity for residents to come together and make a meaningful impact on their community. The effort not only brightens the lives of those in need but also strengthens the fabric of the city, illustrating that compassion and collaboration are essential components of civic life. In a world of increasing complexity, such grassroots initiatives illustrate the importance of local action in effecting change.

Conclusion

With the 37th annual Spirit of Christmas giveaway just around the corner, now is the perfect time for residents to support this heartfelt initiative and get involved in their community. By participating, donating, or volunteering, individuals can play a vital role in enriching the lives of those around them and exemplifying the unique spirit of Indianapolis and its neighboring regions. Let’s join together to spread joy and uplift those in need this holiday season.

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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER

The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.