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Allen Iverson “answers” the call at Christmas

Posted at 7:40 PM, Dec 19, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-20 00:16:08-05
Allen Iverson helps distribute gifts in Portsmouth.

Allen Iverson helps distribute gifts in Portsmouth.

PORTSMOUTH, Va. - Allen Iverson, a newly-minted Basketball Hall of Famer, is back home to play. Not play basketball, to play Santa.

"The Holidays bring much joy to so many families, but for so many others, it's a time of overwhelming stress, especially for families who are unable to provide for their loved ones as they desire," Iverson said. "During this time of year, I make a conscious effort to lend an extra hand to those in need."

Iverson teamed-up with Grove Church and Portsmouth's Redevelopment and Housing Authority to put more gifts under the tree this year for residents of Swanson Homes - a community devastated by Hurricane Matthew. Along with Dr. Melvin O. Marriner, Senior Pastor of the Grove Church and Ms. Donnell Brown, Interim Executive Director for PRHA, Iverson assisted in donating toys and presenting toy store gift certificates Monday in Portsmouth.

Allen Iverson helps distribute toys in Portsmouth.

Allen Iverson helps distribute toys in Portsmouth.

"I chose to serve the Swanson Homes' families, after hearing about what they had been through, because of the storm," Iverson explained. "Virginia is my home, so if I can help anyone in need in my hometown, it is always extra special."