Bengals Quarterback Andy Dalton and his wife, JJ, surprised 12 children, who are facing various health challenges, and their families with Christmas trees and gifts during a holiday celebration. It was part of the Andy & JJ Dalton Foundation's annual Gift of Christmas with the Daltons program, which took place on Thursday, Dec. 5 in the East Club Lounge at Paul Brown Stadium.
Families enjoyed an evening of holiday cheer that included dinner, games, a scavenger hunt, Build-a-Bear station, story time and visits from Christmas princesses, along with Santa and his elves. Each family received a $1,500 furniture store gift card, a Christmas tree and presents from their holiday wish lists.
"For us, Christmas is about spending time and making memories with the ones you love," said Andy Dalton. "With everything these families are going through, we wanted them to have a night where they could simply focus on celebrating the holidays together."
"The Gift of Christmas with the Daltons is one of our favorite programs," said JJ Dalton. "We have the opportunity to spend time with some of the children and families we serve, talk about what Christmas means to our family and the purpose that Jesus has for all of them. We are grateful for the platform that God has given Andy and me to show these families the love that He has for them and that they aren't alone."
Previously known as Holiday Hearts, the Foundation started its annual holiday program in 2012. It is one of five programs of the Andy and JJ Dalton Foundation that provides opportunities, support and resources to seriously ill and physically challenged children and their families.
The Andy & JJ Dalton Foundation has impacted the lives of more than 4.9 million people since its inception in 2011. For more information, please visit andydalton.org.
