This holiday season, some West Philly-based community organizations and churches make sure that children from low-income communities have a chance to celebrate and receive gifts.

The Walnut Hill Community Association (WHCA), in partnership with The Enterprise Center Community Development Corporation (TEC-CDC) and other organizations and businesses will host the 4th annual Walnut Hill Holiday Extravaganza on Tuesday afternoon, 3-5 p.m.. This holiday event is held at the Max Paul Park (4610 Market St.), and this year, over 300 neighborhood children are expected to attend.

Walnut Hill families, neighbors and friends have also been invited. A beautifully decorated 10ft Christmas tree will stand tall amidst the festivity. There will be carolers, music, lights, photos, life-size gingerbread house, Santa and gifts for everyone. 

Since 2007, thanks to the partnership with the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation (WFRF) and TEC, WHCA has been providing initiatives that promote neighborhood health, stronger community assets and greater opportunity for the Walnut Hill community. The Holiday Extravaganza is one of the many ways WHCA shows their gratitude for the support of these organizations and brings neighbors and families together for safe, healthy growing activities in the community where they live.

On Friday, Dec. 22, approximately 25 children, residents of the West Park Apartments will receive holiday gifts at a special holiday celebration with activities, music, crafts, and songs all donated and organized by members of the Transform Church Philly congregation. West Park Apartments is one of the last-remaining PHA high-rise public housing complexes in the city that houses over 300 low-income families in West Philadelphia.

Transform Church is a brand new church in the West Philly/University City area that holds weekly services at Alain Locke School, 4550 Haverford Avenue. The church’s leadership and members wanted to ensure that as many children in the congregation’s neighborhood have a memorable and enjoyable holiday season. The event will take place from 4 – 6 p.m. at 300 N. Busti Street, Building 4445.