Christmas came a bit early for the children and teens of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. SoMi Fitness trainers and owners William Del Sol and Unni Greene, along with many “holiday elves,” delivered toys, bikes and gifts to more than 100 underprivileged youngsters at the church on Dec. 21. The bounty of holiday goodies was collected during the SoMi Fitness annual holiday toy drive, now in its fifth year.
More than 900 gifts were given away at the joyous event. Young children received games, dolls, action figures and skateboards. Teens chose from watches, purses, sunglasses and other fashion items. And 26 bikes were generously donated to the cause – 20 of which were provided by an anonymous donor.
Del Sol and Greene had great support from many volunteers, community leaders and fellow business owners. Realtor and Community Newspapers representative Levi Meyer and his wife Lauren were there to help. Former South Miami Mayor Horace Feliu happily lent a helping hand. The group of volunteers set up the festive room that was overflowing with toys and provided a holiday meal for the church’s congregation.
“We could not have done this without the support of Jen and Dan Edward of Meridian Spine Center, along with their family, Pete and Sheryl Cardone of Boca Tanning Club, the folks at Community Newspapers and, of course, the many generous donors,” said Greene. “We want to express our sincere thanks to everyone who participated!”
Del Sol and Greene started the annual holiday toy drive five years ago because they “wanted to give back to the community,” says Greene. Each year, the number of toys donated and people involved in the effort have increased dramatically.
“This event touches a chord with many people, and it has gotten bigger and bigger every year,” said Greene, who partners with Del Sol to provide personal training, boot camps, group classes and nutritional counseling at SoMi Fitness. “We are looking forward to hosting our sixth holiday toy drive during the next Christmas season, and we will once again invite fellow South Miami businesses to join in this wonderful cause.”
For information about SoMi Fitness, email SoMiFitness@gmail.com or call 786-488-6842.
