Vikings & SCHEELS Host Toys for Tots Drive & Gift Shopping Sprees 

Jeremiah Program Family Coach Hannah Hummel expressed gratitude for the Vikings longstanding partnership with the organization and noted that families participating in the shopping sprees will be impacted far beyond the day itself.

“It’s a very big day, and it can be even a little nerve-racking for mom or the kids being around so many people they didn’t know, but then they go home and truly [soak in] this joy,” Hummel said. “We see that truly last a while. It’s really great to see the players interacting with the kids and standing out as a role model, letting the kids know that being an NFL player is something they could potentially be if they wanted to. It’s important for them to know things like this are achievable for them, too.”

Portia Jackson graduated from Jeremiah Program in 2003, accomplishing her degree as a young mother. Two decades later, she works for Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and enjoys helping other families who may be facing difficult circumstances.

“The opportunity to be able to focus on post-secondary education, to be able to focus on [success for me and my children, not just me, was huge],” Portia said. “And also, the safe and affordable housing was very important. So without Jeremiah Program, you know, I probably would have still gotten to where I am today, but it would have been a lot more difficult.”

Portia and her two youngest children, twin boys Nick and Kobe, were able to join Trishton Jackson for a morning shopping spree highlighted by new basketballs, Nike hoodies, down jackets, LEGOs and a trip through the SCHEELS candy store. Portia and the twins also shopped alongside Jeremiah Program graduate Libby, who now serves as a social worker, and her two sons.