The New Orleans Hornets believe in the spirit of the holiday season. Each December, that belief is re-emphasized through the team’s “Season of Giving” initiative, which includes a wide array of community events that benefit citizens throughout the Gulf South region. From the Hornets’ annual holiday luncheon for senior citizens, to the yearly bike giveaway that presents area children with brand-new rides, the team is passionate about making a positive impact on the New Orleans community and people of all ages.

Toy Drive Fans were encouraged to donate toys at games on Dec. 5, Dec. 7 and Dec. 9 to benefit the Mayor’s Annual Toy Drive for local children of the Housing Authority of New Orleans.
Feed the Children Food Drop—Dec. 10, 2007 Jannero Pargo, Peja Stojakovic, Melvin Ely and Ryan Bowen provided 400 families in New Orleans with meals and personal care items.
Annual Senior Christmas Luncheon—Dec. 12, 2007 Our entire staff served lunch to 1,000 senior citizens who enjoyed entertainment including a performance by the Honeybees, the Used to Bees (senior dance team), raffles and Hugo.	Click Here For Photos
Bike Giveaway—Dec. 15, 2007 The Shinns surprised 50 kids from HANO with a new bike.
New Orleans Mission Donation—Dec. 19, 2007 The entire organization collected and donated socks, coats and fast-food gift cards to the residents of the New Orleans Mission.
Chris Paul and Bobby Jackson Shopping Spree—Dec. 20, 2007 Provided 100 children with a shopping spree at Toys “R” Us.	Click Here For Photos
Annual Shoe Giveaway—Dec. 21, 2007 Donated walking boots and socks to the 65 male residents and 25 female residents of Bridge House, a local substance abuse treatment facility.
Tyson Chandler Shopping Spree TC took 10 kids from Crescent House on a holiday shopping spree.
Rasual Butler and Morris Peterson Toy Giveaway—Dec. 24, 2007 Bop and Mo Pete donated toys on Christmas Eve to approximately 500 local kids at two New Orleans housing developments.	Click Here For Photos

These are some examples of a multitude of events the Hornets conducted during the holiday season. The team also joined Kaboom! in building a local playground; sponsored separate toy and coat drives that resulted in fans donating over 700 toys and 500 coats to those in need; and distributed new shoes and socks to residents at New Orleans’ Bridge House.

"We serve a greater purpose in this community than playing basketball,” said Hornets Owner George Shinn. “The holiday season in New Orleans is unlike any other in the country, and giving back to our community and those in need is part of what the holiday spirit is all about.”