ORLANDO, Fla. — With Christmas just four days away, many families in Orlando are struggling to make ends meet during the holiday season.

On Saturday, the Christian Service Center hosted its annual “Blue Bag” event, a tradition that has been supporting individuals and families impacted by homelessness for nearly 40 years.

What You Need To Know

  • The Christian Service Center hosted its annual “Blue Bag” event, a tradition that supports individuals and families impacted by homelessness

  • Blue bags are filled with basic necessities, including food, hygiene products, and winter essentials

  • The Christian Service Center encourages residents to consider volunteering or donating year-round to make a lasting impact

“Originally (the event) started as an idea to give families who are struggling with food for the holidays — for Thanksgiving, for Christmas — and really to supplement their income when they’re just trying to keep a roof over their heads,” said Bryan Hampton, director of development at the Christian Service Center.

The event gives members of the community the opportunity to drive up to the center and drop off donations. Blue bags are filled with basic necessities, including food, hygiene products, and winter essentials.

“This is really just a way to kind of piggyback off that and get people a resource where they can engage with the community,” Hampton added. “A lot of people don’t see homelessness up close. Maybe you see it at an intersection, somebody holding a cardboard sign, but you don’t get to see it, smell it, and feel it up close.”

The Christian Service Center collaborates with various organizations and churches in the area to encourage community involvement. One such partner, Church in the Son, sends volunteers every fourth Saturday.

Pastor Rick Johnson, a volunteer, said his own experience with homelessness inspires him to give back.

“I was homeless once myself,” Johnson said. “As a homeless veteran in Chicago, I lived in my car during the winter. So I have a real soft spot in my heart for homeless people. If I can do anything to bring somebody a hat and gloves, a hot meal, or a fresh pair of socks, it’s like a game changer. Even something as simple as mosquito repellent or a poncho makes a difference.”

Hampton said the Blue Bag initiative is about more than just the two words; it’s an opportunity for the community to step in and help.

“In mid-January, when our food pantries get low and our volunteers dip out, just keep in mind that there’s always a need in the community,” Hampton said. “Don’t just wait until the holidays to get involved.”

The Christian Service Center encourages residents to consider volunteering or donating year-round to make a lasting impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.