MAPO provides opportunities for Sekhar and her foreign-born parents to help people locally

The spirit of giving was on display Saturday in Belleville.

The Metro Area Professional Organization (MAPO) held its fifth annual Holiday Shoutout Drive-By Giveaway at National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows. During the four-hour event, coats, sweaters, hats, socks, scarves, gloves, blankets, pillows, backpacks and other items were distributed to those in need.

“This event means that we can help bring joy to people’s lives and bless them with some of the material items that maybe they cannot afford for their families,” MAPO President Henrietta Young said. “We want to bring joy to them during this holiday season. We have clothing items that they can use year-round, and we also have school supplies. Read more here.