Rob Tench, Bob Baus, Ruthie McNally, Tracy Lamport, Jesse Zermeño, Ruth Hill and Veronica Ferraro PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club members once again delivered hope and joy this holiday season through their support of Operation Hope, a local nonprofit that supports the Fellsmere community year-round by assisting individuals and families facing economic hardships.

Orchid Island members collected toys at their annual Operation Hope Toy Drive Cocktail Party and Dinner to brighten the holidays and make a meaningful difference in the lives of local children who may otherwise go without.

Orchid Island general manager Rob Tench, resplendent in a Santa Claus-covered suit jacket, and club members helped load the toys and goodies into the Operation Hope truck.

“The members look forward to this event each year. And every year, we seem to get more and more gifts,” said Tench.

“They really enjoy giving back to the community, and this is just a small way they like to do that. It’s something that’s meaningful to all the members here at the club.”

Jesse Zermeño founded Operation Hope in 1997 to assist laborers and their families by improving living conditions and distributing food, clothing and household items to those in need.

They coordinate bi-monthly food and grocery distributions, a backpack and school supply giveaway during a Back-to-School celebration in August, and turkey giveaways at Thanksgiving. Additionally, the facility houses a medical clinic and has plans to add dental this year.

After loading the “sleigh” full of donated toys, Zermeño and his team of elves flew down the Wabasso Causeway to Fellsmere to prepare for their family-friendly celebration the following day. With the threat of a blustery and rainy day, plans were made to move the event indoors.

“No matter what the weather does, I’m going to bless the kids big time. That’s my mission,” said Zermeño.

With the glee of a child on Christmas morning, Zermeño shared that there would be an orchestra, singing, face painting, piñatas, games, food and a visit from the jolly old Papá Noel.

Thanks to the generosity of the community, Operation Hope was able to distribute clothing, chickens, produce and gift cards for groceries, in addition to the gifts.

“The outpouring of generosity to the families is heartwarming. We’re feeding their hearts and their bellies. With all the negativity out there, it’s good to see something positive. This is joy,” added Zermeño.

For more information, visit OperationHopeFL.org.

Photos by Joshua Kodis