Thousands turned out just two days before Christmas to enjoy a holiday meal, music and seasonal faith at the annual Christmas Party sponsored by Wayne Barton, founder of the Wayne Barton Study Center.
A Southern-style dinner was served Sunday, Dec. 23, in a big tent outside the center at 269 NE 14th St., Boca Raton. There was music, holiday desserts and a special appearance by Santa Claus. After dinner, kids went into the gymnasium at the Barton Center to receive their holiday presents.
Each Christmas season, Barton asks the community for help with toy donations for children in the age 12 to 18 bracket – the age group often ignored through other toy donation efforts.
Barton said he wanted to reward the children he serves year-round with his education and meals programs. “We want to give something to the children who have improved their grades and behavior,” said the study center founder founder.
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Helping out at the Wayne Barton Center Christmas Party are Hazel McIntyre from the Boca Raton Lions Club and Jorge Camejo, former development services director in Boca Raton who is now Community Redevelopment Agency director in the city of Hollywood.