City of Refuge Chicago has emphasized the importance of collaboration following a partnership with Amazon and other sponsors for a holiday giveaway. The initiative involved donating 250 turkeys and 250 hams to families in Chicago's West Side Austin neighborhood. The organization shared details about the event on Facebook on December 21.

"No better way to celebrate the holidays than this," said City of Refuge -- Chicago, according to Facebook. "There is power in collaboration. Thank you to Walmart, PetSmart, Amazon.com, @GivenKind, Good360, Meridian of Illinois, Zurich, Chicago West Bible Church, BUILD Chicago, Chicago Police Department, and PetSmart. Thanks to the 150 wrappers who made everything look so festive! Thanks to the 40 volunteers who came out to give everything away."

According to an Amazon media release, the company, in partnership with West Side Sports and City of Refuge, participated in the 5th annual Westside Christmas Drive-Thru on December 21. The event took place at 5916 West Lake Street in the Austin community and included Amazon’s donation of 250 turkeys, 250 hams, and winter essentials for over 300 children.

Screenshot of post on Facebook | Facebook

Amazon co-sponsored the event alongside Walmart, PetSmart, @GivenKind, Good360, Meridian of Illinois, Zurich, Chicago West Bible Church, BUILD Chicago, Chicago Police Department, and PetSmart. This information was shared by City of Refuge Chicago on Facebook.

Ed Whitaker, a volunteer at the event, expressed his gratitude on Facebook: "What a glorious day! Chicago Westside Police and Youth Sports Conference volunteers gifted the Chicago Westside Sports youth with gifts for the holidays," adding that it was particularly cold outside.

City of Refuge Chicago collaborates with local police districts, faith-based leaders, and nonprofits to offer community programs aimed at supporting youth and families. According to their website, these programs include zero-cost AAU baseball and basketball teams; mentorship through the FISLL Project led by NBA great Allan Houston; character-building sports teams integrating police officers, faith leaders, and nonprofits as coaches; as well as additional initiatives like the "Great Launch" program which assists recent college graduates in transitioning into independent living. They also operate a Resource and Care Center providing counseling services, financial literacy training, household goods, and groceries in partnership with Chicago West Bible Church.