A fresh haircut, a warm meal, a hug from a hero — these are things that can mean the world to a child at Christmas.
Convoy of Hope was privileged to partner with the Pittsburgh Steelers for their fifth annual Huddle for the Holidays, a way to bring some hope and resources to the Pittsburgh community. The event in Acrisure Stadium was a night to remember.
Guests sat and talked with Santa, wrote down their Christmas wishes, and received bags of supplies from local organizations, new shoes from Convoy of Hope, haircuts, and a hot meal. It ensured families had relief in their holiday season, which can be hard for so many. It was also a change for kids to meet their sports heroes.
Players sat across the table from children making Christmas crafts. They took photos with families receiving brand new shoes. They helped pass out winter clothes, toys, and books that put a spark in kids’ eyes. And each player gave freely of his time — they were fellow volunteers at the event.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’s Huddle for the Holidays was started by Convoy’s own Vance McDonald, former tight end for the Steelers, to help the team give back. Vance was able to share his story with the players a week before the event.
“A flood of familiar emotion hit me the moment I walked back through those double doors,” Vance said. “It was great to come back and spend time with the team after nearly three years … [and] share my story how Convoy of Hope changed the trajectory of my life.”
Convoy of Hope is proud to be a part of events that not only bring basic essentials to families, but offer experiences and individual care that are remembered for a lifetime.
