Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (December 12, 2024) – BBX Capital Foundation, BBX Capital, and its family of companies—including Altman, IT’SUGAR, Hoffman’s Chocolates, Las Olas Confections and Snacks, and Renin—were proud to partner with Neighbors4Neighbors for the 3rd Annual Holiday Heroes Breakfast on Saturday, December 7, at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale. This heartwarming event supported the “Adopt-A-Family 4 the Holidays” initiative by serving 100 families with children battling cancer. Attendees enjoyed a spectacular breakfast, gifts from Santa, and a variety of fun-filled holiday activities.

The families, referred to the program by organizations including the Jessica June Children’s Cancer Foundation; Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Live Like Bella; Kids of Love; and Sofia’s Hope; were treated to a catered breakfast sponsored by Transworld Business Advisors. Santa Claus, courtesy of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, personally delivered beautifully wrapped presents to the children, who also had their photos taken with him. Adding to the excitement, the Grinch made a surprise appearance.

“The event is always a mix of emotions when I see these kids. For three hours, they have the freedom to eat as much as they want, laugh without holding back, and play to their hearts’ content. It’s tough, but giving them that unforgettable experience is priceless,” said Lois Marino, Executive Director of the BBX Capital Foundation and Director of Community Engagement at BBX Capital.

The morning was packed with engaging activities, including wreath decorating; interactive art and science projects provided by the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS); face painting; balloon artistry; and a trunk filled with games, music, and arts courtesy of the David Posnack JCC Sunrise on Wheels program. DJ Prēc kept the festive energy alive with holiday tunes and games.

“Around 100 families from South Florida battling childhood cancer come together here for this special event,” said Sandra Mudvi, President and CEO of the Jessica June Children’s Cancer Foundation. “We’re so excited for these families to forget about cancer, focus on the positive aspects of the holidays, Santa, and just enjoy themselves—a respite from the real world.”

The Holiday Heroes Breakfast delivered a memorable, joyful experience for all, spreading holiday cheer and creating lasting memories for these deserving families.

High-resolution photos can be downloaded here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/zxkkzx6ab4f3rzl1tczh8/ALLsJqwF9QutkHUWpWVFvxw?rlkey=uc8cb9uiglm8ry25xwji0bplm&st=geaj7iug&dl=0

Photo ID’s:

P1. Lois Marino, Executive Director of the BBX Capital Foundation and Director of Community Engagement at BBX Capital; The Grinch; Eileen LaMarca; Melissa Milroy; Senior Marketing Manager, The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale; Michael Murphy

P2. Santa and Lois Marino

P3. Lois Marino, Executive Director of the BBX Capital Foundation and Director of Community Engagement at BBX Capital; Andy Cagnetta, CEO, Transworld Business Advisors and Allison Cagnetta

P4. Jessica June Children's Cancer Foundation

P5. Canine Assisted Therapy

P6. The Grinch with a Jessica June Children's Cancer Foundation family

About BBX Capital, Inc.: BBX Capital, Inc. is a Florida-based diversified holding company whose principal holdings include BBX Capital Real Estate, BBX Sweet Holdings, and Renin. For additional information, please visit www.BBXCapital.com.

About BBX Capital Foundation: The BBX Capital Foundation was created in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) corporate foundation. Since then, the Foundation has awarded more than $20 million in contributions and in-kind services to charitable organizations throughout Florida.  The BBX Capital Foundation focuses on three key areas: the arts, education, and human services.  It considers requests for specific projects, as well as for general programs.

About Neighbors 4 Neighbors: Neighbors 4 Neighbors is a nationally acclaimed non-profit organization based in Miami, founded by CBS television in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992.  In October of that same year, Neighbors became a separate 501(c)3 nonprofit.  Its vision is to empower every person in South Florida with the knowledge that they have something of value to share with a neighbor in need. Using a combination of resource development, collaboration with service providers and the power of media, Neighbors 4 Neighbors empowers the community to use its talents, time and money to help others in need. For more information, to donate or to read about success stories that inspire action and create change for our neighbors in need, please visit www.Neighbors4Neighbors.org.

Media Contact:

Kip Hunter Marketing
Lexi Udine | [email protected] | 954-812-3844
Kip Hunter | [email protected] | 954-303-5551

 

 

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