‘Father Christmas’ gives back to local dads

This holiday season, Father Christmas wants to make a difference in the lives of 10 Richmond-area dads.

The Relationship Foundation of Virginia started the annual Father Christmas event five years ago to recognize dads who have dedicated themselves to their kids and families each year but have encountered hardship during the year.

From a list of dozens of nominees, the organization will identify 10 dads to receive $500 along with gifts for their kids this year. Donors have made contributions to support all 10 families.

“This makes my Christmas, it’s by far my favorite event of the year,” said Chris Beach, executive director of the RFVA, a Richmond-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families throughout Virginia. “We make nothing on this event. Dads are working their tails off to provide for their families, and we wanted to recognize them. This is a passion project for me.”

This year’s COVID-friendly event will take place at U-Turn, with each family visiting a plump, jolly guy in a red suit one at a time. As each family walks into the event, they will hear dad’s nomination story.

Last year, nominees included dads from across the region. One mom nominated her son, saying, “He's been teaching these kids, really having a good bond with his boys. He stretches every nickel.”

Another dad supported his wife and baby during the son’s hospitalization, and was recognized for standing by their side, going back and forth from work to the hospital never complaining about being tired."

This year’s nominees include a dad of five boys who worked 2-3 jobs to provide, even as the family became homeless during the pandemic. “No matter what,” the nomination read, “our boys always came first. He strives every day to be the best dad he can be.”

Another nominee lost twins before birth this year, and is still struggling to pay the medical bills, while another nominee dad of four lost his job and was forced to move.

“He’s worried himself sick about how he can take care of his kids this holiday season,” the nomination reads. “He’s usually on the other end and helps other families. He would give you the shirt off his back.”

Said Beach: “This is Christmas for me. This is my favorite event of the year. This is truly making a difference in someone’s life.”

Last year, a nominee dad stayed after receiving a gift at the event and told Beach, “you don’t know what this is going to do for my family” as he starting crying and hugged Beach.

“I know we can’t help everyone, but for the ones we can, it’s awesome,” Beach said.

Nominations are open through Nov. 29 and can be made at http://FatherChristmasVA.org.