‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the room, people were snoozing, and all was cool. The kids were nestled all snug in their beds while visions of Gummy Bears danced in their heads. Mama in her bonnet and I in my doo rag had just shut it down for a long winter’s nap. WAIT! No, this story isn’t about the man in red and white! This is a tale about a dude who’s strong and bold and happens to wear Royal Purple and Old Gold. He’s lauded each Christmas for the toys he hauls. Yes, THIS story is about Omega Claus…
Omega Claus was conceived more than two decades ago as the brainchild of Bro. Jesse Day, a member of the Chi Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. His intent was to incentivize underserved youth in the greater Orlando area to do well in school. Over the years, the program expanded in scope but still rewards deserving elementary school aged children in Central Florida with a bicycle during the Christmas holidays. The recipients are nominated by their teachers and or school administrators for displaying an aptitude for scholarship, hard work, and citizenship.
This year Omega Claus made a special delivery to the L. Claudia Allen Center on December 21, 2024. He presented twenty-seven students with brand-new bicycles to take home and put under their Christmas trees. From Eccleston Elementary School, Mr. Gregory Chandler nominated the following recipients: Julieth Javier Villalovos, Taino Shepard, Terrance Elder, Josiah Ellis, and Ariyanna Guadalupe. Ms. Monica Harper (Washington Shores Elementary) recommended Dominique Griffin, Lamark Grays, Jr., Tianna Jackson, Ronnie Griffin, and Marc-Henry Regis Jr. Ms. Tralaynia Gibbs (Ridgewood Elementary) selected the following winners from her school: Michael Pierre, Benchino Saint-juste Ancel, Jeremy Mejia-Paredes, Sofia Pierre, and Rihanna Wilson. Ms. Denise Hardwick-Irwin Ivey (Lane Elementary) selected the following recipients: Jonathan Juarez Trejo, Kody Smith, Jansel S. Cordero Cosme, Krismariel J. Cordero Cosme, and Jakayla Loving. Finally, Ms. Nakisha Branton (Lakeville Elementary School) selected Amani Kuria, Keycha Fernand, Keyron Modeste, Gyvens Fernand, and Wyatt Dame.
Back row: Brian Hunter (Omega Claus Chairperson)
“Consistent sponsorship is extremely important in making this annual event a reality,” said Immediate Past Basileus (President) of Chi Tau Chapter Dr. Richard Williams. Newly appointed Omega Claus Chairperson Brian Hunter wasted little time thanking this year’s sponsors adding,” Walmart has collaborated with Chi Tau Chapter for several years and continues to provide us with excellent service and great bikes. Also, many thanks to Gregory Richardson (President) of the Friendship Foundation. This event would not be successful without their dedication and support. To Cigars and Cars, thank you for your support and let’s keep our partnership going. Last, but certainly not least, a special thanks goes out to Brothers John Manigault and Derrick Harris for your generosity and donations. With the number of bicycles gifted today our total exceeds one thousand.”
Current Chi Tau Chapter Basileus, Dr Carl Gilmore, Jr. spoke about Chi Tau’s community outreach and stated, “What started as a small gesture of kindness has grown into a beloved tradition, inspiring children, and their families year after year. Omega Claus exemplifies Chi Tau’s unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the community, fostering hope, and ensuring every child experiences the magic of the holiday season.”
Summing up the day’s events, Chairperson Hunter concluded the program saying “I want to thank Omega Claus (Brother La Roy Harris) and the Omega Claus committee, teachers and administrators for making this a success. We hope everyone has a Merry Christmas, and if God is willing, we will do this again next year.”
Note: The Friendship Foundation is a 501c(3) Corporation. If you would like to donate or become a sponsor, contributions can be made directly via Zelle at: ffincorlxt@gmail.com.
