Belden “Noonie Man” Batiste, a longtime New Orleans community organizer and grassroots leader, is once again rallying neighbors, volunteers, and donors for a heart-centered Holiday Drive taking place on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
The event will be held at 2252 New Orleans Street at 2:00 p.m., where Batiste and his team will come together to feed the homeless and less fortunate, while also distributing toys, bikes, winter coats, blankets, and essential items to children and families across the city.
This year’s drive continues a meaningful tradition of community outreach rooted in compassion, service, and unity — ensuring that no child and no family in New Orleans feels forgotten during the holiday season.
Feeding the Homeless & Caring for the Less Fortunate
In addition to the toy drive, the 2025 Holiday Drive places a strong emphasis on providing meals to individuals experiencing homelessness. Community members are encouraged to donate pans of food, drinks, and non-perishable items to help feed those in need.
Belden is also known for personally handing out blankets, offering warmth and dignity to people facing harsh winter conditions. This hands-on approach reflects the heart of the initiative — meeting people where they are and providing not just food and supplies, but genuine care.
A Drive With Heart and Purpose
Batiste says the mission behind the holiday initiative goes far beyond a single day of giving.
“No child should wake up without feeling the wonder of the holidays — and no family should feel alone during this season of giving,” Batiste shared.
The event is designed to foster community connection, bringing together volunteers, neighborhood groups, and local partners to create a celebration filled with music, food, fellowship, and generosity.
How You Can Help
There are several ways community members can make a meaningful impact:
• Donate food (pans of cooked meals, drinks, or non-perishable items) to help feed the homeless and less fortunate
• Donate unwrapped toys or bikes for children of all ages
• Give warm winter items such as coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and blankets
• Volunteer on December 24 to assist with food service, distribution, and community outreach
To coordinate food donations, blankets, or volunteer support, please contact the director at 504-259-3766 to ensure proper planning and placement on the volunteer list.
A Christmas Eve of Compassion
Through food, warmth, toys, and shared humanity, Belden Batiste’s 2025 Holiday Drive aims to spread joy, restore hope, and remind New Orleans of the power of community care. As Christmas Eve approaches, the message is clear: giving back isn’t just an act — it’s a commitment to one another.
