On Dec. 2, hundreds of toys filled the hallway inside the Anacostia Playhouse. Neighbors, from across the city, made donations as they entered the black box theater to attend the 7th Annual Multicultural Holiday Celebration and youth gift drive, sponsored by the Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC). Inside the theater, attendees were celebrated for their contributions and reminded of the reason for the season.
“We recognize the importance of bridging the gap of religion and culture during this festive time of year,” said Lamont Mitchell, ACC’s board chair. This year’s program enlisted the help of several city luminaries to help highlight the principals of Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah. A palpable spirit of unity was in the air by night’s end when the host, Monica T. Ray, announced a record 400 toys had been collected in the hallway outside the theater. All donations benefited the Metropolitan Police Departments 7th District’s Annual Holiday party, now in its 50th year. “We look forward to being part of this meaningful event for years to come,” says Philip Pannell, ACC’s Executive Director. For more information visit www.anacostiacc.org.
