'Giving to others': Christmas light display benefits Tulsa nonprofit
Nov 22, 2024
Tulsa Raceway Park is going to look more festive this year. Chris Berryhill and his family are bringing a new drive-thru light display to the Tulsa community. The family saw a display in Nashville and wanted to bring it to Oklahoma.I thought to myself, wouldnt it be so cool to own one of these? It was a dream then, Berryhill said.That dream is now a reality. It is called Magical Lights Adventure. The mile-long drive-thru light display has over 1 million lights of trees, presents, and, of course, Santa Claus. Its not just the lights bringing Christmas Spirit.The Berryhills are donating some of the proceeds to Fostering Connections, a non-profit that gives resources and clothes to over 4,000 foster children in Green Country.My wife and I have a big heart towards children and foster children, and with this being a Christmas family event. We thought what better organization it would be to partner with than a foster organization, Berryhill said.According to the U.S. Department of Human Services, Oklahoma has more than 6,000 children in the child welfare system, and 49% of those kids live with a non-relative family.Along with the donations, 50 foster families with Fostering Connections can see the display for free.2 News talked to Margaret Wish, the executive director of Fostering Connections. She told us giving families the opportunity to enjoy holiday festivities will bring normalcy, For me, it was an exciting way for foster families to be able to celebrate the holidays."Wish said the holidays can be difficult for foster children and their families. She said a local business wanting to spread holiday cheer would really bring joy to all.Were just really excited to offer this to foster families as just another way of saying were here to support you, Wish said.Giving has always been the Oklahoma spirit, but it means a little more during this season for some.To me, it really brings the Christmas out of the experience because thats what Christmas is all about is giving to others, Berryhill said.If you would like more information about Magical Light Adventures or donate a ticket for more foster families to see the lights, click here.Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere -- Download our free app for Apple, Android and Kindle devices. Sign up for daily newsletters emailed to you Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram SUBSCRIBE on YouTube