The city of East Point, Georgia, was excited when Shaq-A-Claus (Shaquille O’Neal) dropped off over 3,000 toys for over 500 families to spread holiday cheer. It was a fantastic sight; hundreds of people gathered around to watch as Santa Shaq delivered presents to children of all ages. It was an extraordinary event that will long be remembered as a season highlight by the local community.
Shaq-O-Claus began years ago when O’Neal’s mother visited a Boys and Girls Club and asked him for help a few years back.
“She didn’t want to ask me for the money to buy all the kids’ toys. So, she said, ‘I need some of the money,’ and I said, ‘nope, can’t do that. I’ll take care of it,’ ” said O’Neal.
That event gave birth to the Shaq-A-Claus Foundation by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. The foundation’s mission is to ensure that every child in need has access to holiday gifts each year.
This year, O’Neal teamed up with East Point City Councilman Lance Robertson to give thousands of presents to families who needed extra help this holiday season. Not only did the kids get their presents from Santa Shaq, but they also got a chance to meet him and take photos with him.
Local businesses such as Walmart, This Is It restaurants, Fulton County Magistrate Court, and many more contributed donations toward this fantastic cause, showing their support and bringing even more smiles to the community.
It was an incredible experience for everyone involved in the Shaq-A-Claus event in East Point this year.
–by Ina Savaz of @savazsociety
