The holiday spirit radiated throughout Johnston, as more than 500 families from Johnston, Warwick, Cranston, North Providence, and Smithfield, came together for the Johnston Senior Provider Collaboration Committee’s (JSPCC) annual “Brunch with Santa.” Held at the Johnston Senior Center, the event offered a day of festive cheer, community connection, and unforgettable holiday memories.
A Celebration of Community and Christmas
From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was imbued with joy and magic. A talented Brass Quartet welcomed attendees with the sound of classic Christmas carols, setting the tone for a day filled with holiday spirit. Inside, children delighted in arts and crafts stations that allowed them to express their creativity, while families gathered to share a warm and delicious meal donated by local partners.
The highlight of the day was Santa Claus himself. Families enjoyed professional complementary photos with Santa by Jenn Lombari Photography, capturing memories to cherish for years to come. Each child received a special gift, and Mrs. Claus added her own sweet touch by baking chocolate chip cookies, ensuring that every young guest left with a smile. Guests also had the privilege of special guest appearances by the Grinch and Dominic the Donkey.
Heartfelt Testimonials From the Community
The event left a profound impact on the families who attended.
Amanda Harrison, a mother of two, praised the initiative, saying, “I loved that this event was created. My kids had so much fun, and I’m so grateful the pictures with Santa were free. During these hard times, the mall prices are just horrendous.”
Katie Scorpio, a mother of three, expressed her gratitude: “I’m so glad there is an organization that did this for the children. It brought the true magic of Christmas to Johnston.”
Lorie DeCarlo, a mother of four, shared how the event made a difference for her family: “Having just given birth to my fourth child, this Christmas has been financially difficult for us. I’m so grateful for the work the JSPCC put together. The complementary pictures with Santa really helped us out.”
Sponsors and Volunteers Make It Happen
The success of Brunch with Santa was made possible by the collaborative efforts of JSPCC’s core sponsors: These four healthcare communities, led by Maurizio Marchese of Morgan Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, Michael Mangasarian of The Bridge at Cherry Hill, Loraine DiLorenzo of Cherry Hill Manor Nursing and Rehab Center, and Jennifer Cardullo Burns of Anchor Bay at Pocasset, worked tirelessly to bring the community together and make the event a reality. Their dedication and commitment ensured a memorable experience for all who attended. This event would not have been possible without.
Special thanks are extended to:
- Concord Home Health
- Wingate on Blackstone
- Care Concierge of New England
- Gentry Moving & Storage
- Johnston Fire Department
- Johnston Police Department
- Halcyon
- Victoria Court
- American Parkinson’s Association
- Cherry Hill Manor
- Morgan Health
- Anchor Bay Pocasset
- The Alliance for Better Long-Term Care
- Home Care Advantage
- The Ombudsman Office
- Beacon Hospice
- House of Hope
- Johnston Recreation Department
- Gentiva
- Harmony Hospice
- Heritage Hills
- Atwood Pharmacy
- Home Smart
- 4 Winds Senior Consultants
- The Original Italian Bakery
- Johnston Senior Center
- DJ Eddie
Local Vendors Add a Special Touch
The event also highlighted the talents of local vendors, who offered unique shopping opportunities for attendees:
- Poppy Jewelry
- All About Scents and More by Leyda Perez
- Spearhead Brewing Company
- Designs by Deb
- Wild Woof Wood Working
Students Step Up
Volunteers from Johnston High School played a key role in the event’s success. Their dedication and enthusiasm helped ensure the day ran smoothly, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
A Holiday Tradition to Remember
The Brunch with Santa exemplified the power of community spirit and collaboration. Through the generosity of sponsors, the hard work of volunteers, and the participation of families, the event created a magical experience that will be cherished by all who attended.
“From all of us at JSPCC, we wish you a happy, beautiful, blessed, and thankful Christmas and New Year’s,” the committee shared in a closing statement. “May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.”
As the event concluded, it was clear that the Johnston Senior Provider Collaboration Committee had once again succeeded in bringing the community together in celebration, embodying the true magic of Christmas.
