Community Corner

Help Needed To Feed, Fulfill Christmas Wish Lists For Somerset County Families

Bridgewater actress Christina Castellanos is asking for help to sponsor families at the Agape House in Somerville to celebrate Christmas.

(Ashley Ludwig/Patch)

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater actress Christina Castellanos, who has portrayed an inmate in Netflix's "Orange Is The New Black," is once again helping to grant the wishes of Somerset County families in need for Christmas.

For multiple years in a row, Castellanos visits the Agape House at 122-128 E Main St. in Somerville to cook meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas. She also collects toys and donations for Christmas gifts.

"For the last few years, I have been able to get over 200 families sponsored I’m hoping to continue to make that number grow. And one day when I make it as an actress that will be one of the first things I do is take this to a global level," said Castellanos.

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This year she got the biggest list yet with 24 parents and children needed their wish lists fulfilled. Castellanos is reaching out to the community to help her grant their Christmas wishes. (see the lists below)

Along with granting the wishlists, Castellanos is looking for anyone willing to help provide a Christmas dinner to the families on Dec. 22.

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The gifts have to be dropped off no later than Dec. 21.

"It is important for me to give back to my community because no one should ever feel like they are forgotten about. As humans, I feel it is our obligation to help those who are less fortunate. I’m blessed enough to have a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and food to eat so it’s the least I could do to put a smile on the faces of these families and let them know that someone cares. Everyone deserves to open a gift, especially on the day our lord was born," said Castellanos.

Anyone looking to donate or sponsor a child or parent can reach Castellanos through Facebook or send an email at ccastellanos127@gmail.com.

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