Local volunteers bring ‘Christmas in Richmond’

For the fifth straight year, Christmas in Richmond will serve the community.

The project, started by a local woman who came back after graduating from Howard University, serves food and gifts to hundreds in central and North Richmond on Christmas day.

A shot of last year's festivities. (courtesy of Burgundie Spears)

“I grew up in Richmond and my mom was born and raised in North Richmond,” said Burgundie Spears, 26, who founded the project with her mother, Edna Campbell. “We feel a moral obligation to serve in our community.”

Food will be served 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Nevin Community Center in central Richmond and at the North Richmond Senior Center. The food will be an array of turkey, dressing, greens, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, potato salad and green beans, along with dessert.

Campbell, a real estate agent in Richmond, and Spears have self-financed the project over the years, along with donations from family members, community members and area businesses.

As an informal project without tax-deductible status, Spears said it is difficult to get donations for Christmas in Richmond.

“It’s a tough economy, and people of course have a lot of other charities that they donate too also, so resources are always scarce,” Spears said.

Spears, who moved back to Richmond this year, said she expects more than 700 people at the two sites. In recent years, turnouts have been 400-600 people. The project has about 40 volunteers.

“We made a commitment, and now this has become our way of celebrating Christmas, by sharing with others,” Spears said.

To donate, volunteer or get more information on Christmas in Richmond, call (510) 932-6817 or e-mail sburgundie@yahoo.com.