Parkridge hosts annual Christmas Party on Wednesday

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-  Parkridge Medical Center looks to spread holiday cheer as they give back to children of all ages on Christmas. 

“We come in super early before the kids wake up, we got here and started putting out the gifts for the kids, so as they wake up this morning, they will get to see all of the presents that Santa left for them,” said Christy Belew With Parkridge

Parkridge held their annual Christmas party at the Child and Adolescent Campus for more than 40 years. 

Every year at Christmas, children at the hospital receive more than 15 presents each from staff and community members.  

Belew explains why it’s important to share Christmas with the kiddos. 

“Christmas is a big deal for kids, especially those that still believe in Santa. And we do have some little kids here that really, truly do believe still in Santa, and so we want to keep that magic alive for them, keep them full of hope and wonder. And it is just it feels good for us too. I mean, there is a selfish part of giving back that feels really good to see the joy and excitement on their faces,” said Belew. 

As a part of Parkridge Christmas festivities, children are also fed with a special breakfast and lunch. 

Belew considers Christmas a time to care and show love to the kids.  

“I want them to know that Santa can find them wherever they are, that Santa can help them wherever they are, and they can get help wherever they are. And so I want them to experience that joy and the kindness. And you know, those that do not believe in Santa, the older kids, you know, they just know it is the kindness of strangers that are giving to them, and that means a lot as well,” said Belew.

Parkridge’s mission   is to meet the needs of individuals and show support during the holidays

Belew feels happy and joyful to see each child enjoy Christmas

“I am so full of joy to see them so excited this day. And to you know, just last night, when I was leaving, it was pretty late last night, the kids were going Miss Christy, you here tomorrow? Yes, I am. But Miss Christy, here are you going to be here on Christmas? Yes, I am. And so to know that they are looking forward to that, and I can be somebody here to support them and be a constant in their life means a lot to me as well,” Belew concluded.