Interfaith brings holiday cheer to Peoria

Hundreds of people got into the holiday spirit Saturday at the Peoria Sports Complex during  Interfaith Community Care’s first Festival of Cheer.

The festival, which included a visit by Santa Claus and a romp in the snow. was put on by Interfaith in an effort to reach more Peoria and Surprise residents who may not be aware of all the nonprofit organization has to offer, said Pam Grigsby Jones, president of program operations for Interfaith.

"We want to let the Peoria citizens know about our services and really expand some of them," she said. "We still have more to offer. We wanted to do something to let them know we’re here."

"It would be our hope that it would get bigger and be even more fun and that we could do it every year."

Surprise resident Jeff Amburgey brought his son Dylan, 8, to play in the snow.

"It’s hard to find clean family fun in Phoenix these days," he said.

Tanisha Arnett, also of Surprise, said her two children were really enjoying the snow and inflatable toys.

"I’m here ... to get the kids in the Christmas spirit, and for Santa, of course," she said, adding the event was the first time she’d ever heard of Interfaith. "I’m definitely learning a lot."

In addition to vendor booths, prize drawings and food offerings, there were performances and music by various groups such as the Sun City German Folk Dancers.

The authentically dressed seniors performed several traditional German dances for spectators.

"We just love being able to share our background and culture with someone else," said Anne Schmidt, a member of the dance group. "We don’t get that chance in every city to show off our culture and once these people are gone, if we don’t pick it up, it will be history."

For more information about Interfaith Community Care or the services available, visit www.interfaithcommunitycare.org or call 623-584-4999.