This Easter, the Clearwater Community Volunteers (CCV) brought joy, hope, and a little sparkle to more than 150 underprivileged children and families across Pinellas County. From the Sheriff’s Police Athletic League (PAL) in Lealman to a local domestic violence shelter, CCV volunteers made sure no child was left out of the holiday fun.
At the Pinellas County Sheriff’s PAL, children were treated to a festive Easter celebration where they crafted their own baskets, filled them with colorful grass, and of course—plenty of candy. Each child received a $5 surprise inside their Easter egg, making it feel, as PAL Executive Director Neil Brickfield put it, “like every kid hit the LOTTO!” The children also had the chance to pick out a cuddly stuffed animal—some even left with two!
After bringing Easter magic to PAL, CCV turned their attention to the families at The Haven, a shelter under Hope Villages of America. Volunteers hosted an Easter egg hunt for the children, gifting them with candy-filled eggs, while their mothers received giant gold sparkling eggs containing $100 cash, a manicure/pedicure voucher, and sweet treats. But the generosity didn’t stop there—families were also given all the ingredients for a delicious Easter dinner: three hams, 20 pounds of potatoes, green bean casserole fixings, fresh biscuits, and three apple pies.
A Youth Advocate at The Haven expressed heartfelt appreciation, saying, “Treats like these help the children forget about abuse for a day.”
This event is a testament to CCV’s continued commitment to bringing joy and support to those who need it most, living up to their guiding motto: “Love and Help Children.”
