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Published on December 10, 2024
Miami Heat and Dolphins Heroes Bring Holiday Joy to South Florida CommunitiesSource: Wikipedia/Phillip Pessar, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

South Florida is buzzing with the spirit of giving, as local sports heroes step off the courts and fields to spread a little holiday cheer among communities in need. Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo recently hosted his annual toy drive, as reported by Local 10, where his goal was to bring smiles to the faces of over a thousand children from selected communities, with a personal touch.

"That’s what it’s all about," Adebayo said, according to another event recap by WSVN. "Reaching out to the community, and we’re doing it in bigger ways. Thinking of better ways to do it. Obviously, it’s come to the point where we pack out the arena. It’s definitely a lifelong dream, and I'm happy we’re getting to do this." This collective effort took place at the Kaseya Center, an event filled with joy, toys, and even appearances by Adebayo's Heat teammates.

The Miami Heat also teamed up with the Share family for an additional toy giveaway peppering gifts across multiple South Florida schools. Amy Share Brennan and Marni Share Bloomster, daughters of founding HEAT Season Ticket Member, perpetuated their father's tradition, bringing holiday happiness to children's faces. "This is like a fun day for us each year," Marni Share Bloomster said in a statement obtained by WSVN.

On the gridiron, Miami Dolphins weren't standing on the sidelines, as offensive lineman Terron Armstead hosted a holiday shopping spree for youth from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, Seek Foundation, and We Are the Veterans. "It's impactful to the community," Armstead expressed, according to WSVN. "It means a lot to me personally just to be able to do so. I feel like it's our duty as professional athletes. These people come and cheer us on; fans spend their hard-earned money to support. So it's just a small, a really small way to give back and spend time with the community."