Winter Wonderfest event provides presents, holiday cheer for families in need

GREENFIELD, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Thanks to the work of over a thousand volunteers and the generosity of the members at The Ridge Community Church, roughly two-thousand kids whose families fall below the poverty line were treated to a spectacular Christmas experience on Saturday in Greenfield.

Families were able to show up to The Ridge Community Church to enjoy some hot cocoa, cotton candy, Christmas-themed games, arts and crafts, a photo booth, and kids were also able to pick out a Christmas present from one of 7 rooms throughout the church.

"Just to share a bit of the wonder and the joy of Christmas and the holiday season," explained Jodi Tonarelli, Executive Pastor at The Ridge Community Church. "We hope it's a fun event and a real family event, too."

2021 is the first year the church is hosting the event.

Organizers say the goal is to bring some relief to families that are struggling during the holiday season.

"We want to bring some relief and joy to area families who may be feeling extra stress as the holidays approach," explained Kelly Eger, Director of Compassion at The Ridge Community Church. "This joy may also come at a time when families need it most after communities were shaken by the event that unfolded in Waukesha."

Along with in-person activities, The Ridge also provided a drive-up service for families wishing to maintain social distance.

Families from all over the greater Milwaukee area participated in the event.