Jingle Bells Ring for Backstretch Families
Celebrating a Day of Magic at BCCA’s Anna House!
The Belmont Child Care Association, Inc. (BCCA) welcomed 500 children from the New York Thoroughbred backstretch racing community at Belmont Park to Anna House on Saturday, December 6 along with over 100 volunteers for BCCA’s annual Holiday Shopping Day. The spirit of the season filled everyone with warmth, excitement, and generosity that make this tradition so special each year.
Anna House was transformed into a true Winter Wonderland featuring the cozy Sugar Plum Cafe, a bustling Holiday Shop, festive decorations that brought the magic of the season to life, and a visit to Santa’s Station to meet Santa Claus! Frank of the Elmont Fire Department, who filled Santa’s boots with big-hearted cheer, had families smiling all afternoon. Children lined up to select gifts for their loved ones with the help of volunteer elves from the local community, all at no cost. Every item was brand new and selected with care, thanks to the kindness of BCCA’s donors, sponsors, and volunteers.
One parent shared the impact of the day, saying, “It means so much to our family to be part of this event. My children look forward to it every year and the joy it brings stays with them long after the holidays.”
BCCA Executive Director Joanne Adams added, “Holiday Shopping Day reflects the heart of our mission, and the generosity of our community, volunteers, and supporters ensures that every child experiences the joy of giving, the excitement of the season, and the feeling of being surrounded by love.”
This cherished event was a huge success thanks to the support of The New York Racing Association, Inc., USMC Toys for Tots Foundation, Jazwares Cares, National Charity League Inc. (Garden City Chapter), Elmont Fire Department, and the Elmont Memorial High School
and Floral Park Memorial High School National Honor Societies. Their contributions helped to make this year’s Holiday Shopping Day a bright and memorable celebration for the families of the backstretch workers at Belmont Park and Aqueduct Racetrack.
