BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)\u2013 The giving just keeps on coming this holiday season.<\/p>\n
And for the Russell family, Christmas came early with a holly jolly surprise of a decorated tree and some wrapped presents.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis right here gives me the the holiday spirit. And this is brightening up our Christmas this year. And it shows that people still have the spirit of giving so many blessings.\u201d, Eugene Russell, one of the recipients said.<\/p>\n
Eugene Russell didn\u2019t have a home and was tasked with taking care of his infant son seven years ago.<\/p>\n
But this year, he\u2019s a new homeowner and has found a job working for the Open Door Network, the same group who helped him get back on his feet.<\/p>\n
\u201cI wound up at the Open Door Network in 2018 when he was three months, and I was homeless, and they helped me out. They they helped me get a job. So I\u2019ve been working there for five years now, which is such a blessing. I don\u2019t think I would have made it without them. Not only did they give me a job, but they helped me get in this place.\u201d, Russell said.<\/p>\n
Lauren Skidmore, of the Open Door Network shares why the tree giveaway is an important reminder to the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt really reminds our clients that the community is here for them, that the community is going to wrap their arms around them during the Christmas season. And this is really what Christmas is all about, is making sure we can give back to those in need. And as you can see today, this father and son are really just excited and blessed and so happy to be recipients of this year\u2019s tree and toy giveaway.\u201d<\/p>\n
But none of the tinsel filled fun would be possible without the help of the Alta One Federal Credit Union.<\/p>\n
They helped provide the festive tree, presents and some of the holiday spirit.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe love giving to our community and the underserved and this family was so deserving it was a blessing to be able to bring them the trees, the presents to their new home so they can start creating their Christmas memories.\u201d, Vickie Guinn with Alta One Credit Union said.<\/p>\n
Russell shares a message of strength to those suffering in the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, anybody that\u2019s out there that\u2019s going through hardship don\u2019t give up, number one. Number two, they have places for you to go. Go to the shelters and you can start your life all over again. It\u2019s never too late.\u201d<\/p>\n
And his son has one message for everyone in the golden empire.<\/p>\n
\u201cMerry Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n
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