Each year, the Southside Christmas Parents select an Honorary Christmas Parent for the year. Judy Brister of Keysville was selected as the Honorary Christmas Parent for this year.

We believe that giving back is one of the most important initiatives that an individual can partake in, especially around the holiday season.

During this time of year, there are so many people without food, shelter, gifts or even just a smiling face to make them feel validated.    

Brister was selected as the Honorary Christmas Parent this year because she has displayed characteristics symbolic of a true Christmas angel.

We wholeheartedly agree with the group’s selection.

Brister and her husband, Bill, have been commended as being big supporters of the Southside Christmas Parents organization when it first began in 1997. They are even former chairs of the program.

Although Judy has not been active with the organization since 2003, the time she’s devoted to the children of Charlotte County is selfless and much appreciated.

This Christmas, let us remember the true meaning for the season. Let us experience the gift of giving and selfless acts of kindness for the greater good of the community, such as the ones Judy Bristler has offered. We commend her on a job well done.

Individuals like her and those who make up the Southside Christmas Parents organization make us proud to live in Charlotte County — a place of givers.