A Christmas miracle happened right here in Augusta during the week of Christmas. Many people had no electricity that week, including Christmas Eve and Day. In fact, the homeless shelter at Bread of Life Ministries had no power, and families with children and individuals were soon cold and needed a place to go.

Thanks to the amazing commitment of the leaders of our great city and their staff — from City Hall, Augusta fire and police departments and Civic Center management and staff — people in need were able to go to the Civic Center and have a warm place to stay.

City staffers left their own families and came to help in the middle of the night and on Christmas Day.

Not only did families have a warm place to sleep, but they had homemade meals and treats. Better yet, on Christmas morning, Santa Claus was alerted and redirected to provide special gifts to all the children.

We had our own “Miracle on 34th Street” this past Christmas, and on behalf of all the people of Augusta, I want to thank all of those involved. We are blessed and fortunate to live and work in this great community.

Dean Lachance, executive directorBread of Life MinistriesAugusta