It started in 2015 when Erika Castroman handed out 15 goody bags meant for her family on Christmas Day.
On her way to a family Christmas reunion, Castroman and her family encountered several homeless people and she asked her parents if she could pass out the goody bags to the homeless.
They pulled over and handed out the bags that brought smiles to 15 homeless people.
Since then, she started her “Stockings Filled with Love.” In 2016 she handed 50 draw strings bags, and in 2017, she handed out 100 bags, all with non perishable food and toiletries.
“I’m looking to hand out 150 bags this year,” Castroman said. “I’ll be taking donations of any non perishable food such as Cheez It, Gold Fish, Granola bars, fruit cups, juices, wipes, hand sanitizers, toothbrushes and tooth paste.”
Castroman said all food items must be individual items. Monetary donations will be accepted in person or through her “Stockings Filled with Love,” which will reflect exactly how much is spent and what the money is used for.
The Miami Lakes Sports Shop on Main Street has volunteered to be the drop off site for the third year in a row.
“I want to thank everyone that has helped me the last two years and hope they can help again so I can put some more smiles on the homeless this Christmas day,” said Castroman.