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AHOSKIE – Although she lives nearly 500 miles away, Jazmine Bunch’s heart will always be in Ahoskie as well as wrapped in love for her late brother.

For the second time since 2020, Bunch will distribute toys and gift cards to those in need this Christmas, all in memory of her brother, Travis, who passed away on May 31, 2020 at the age of 26.

That distribution will take place from 12 noon until 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24 at No Man’s Land Park, located adjacent to the railroad crossing on Main Street in downtown Ahoskie.

“I’m trying to raise $2,000 by that time. The money will be used to purchase toys and gift cards that will be distributed on Christmas Eve,” said Bunch, who currently resides in Atlanta, GA where she is employed by Warner Brothers Discovery.

While the holiday season is typically a joyous occasion, there are elements of grief when remembering the lives of those not here to enjoy the festivities.

“I always say to be the change I wish to see in the world, but this is also to uplift my brother’s name and continue the love and legacy he deserved to give himself,” Bunch remarked. “Everything I do is in honor of my brother, and all the other brothers, sisters, uncles, cousins, mothers and fathers who were taken from us way too soon. Merry Heavenly Christmas.”

Bunch launched “Trav’s World Christmas Toy Drive” in December 2020. After two weeks of fundraising she collected $1,000 as well as 50 pair of either new or gently worn sneakers and over 30 new or gently used toys.

“I went shopping for two days with the money that was donated and purchased toys,” Bunch recalled. “Everything was distributed among the families who had pre-registered and we still had some toys and shoes for those who walked-up on distribution day.”

Those wishing to donate to the 2022 toy drive can contact Bunch at 252-513-0097.