J. Hud Gives Back In Honor of Her Nephew

Many people will recall that Jennifer Hudson's nephew, brother, and mother were tragically murdered in 2008. 2 years later, Jennifer is celebrating the life of her 7-year-old nephew Julian by having a toy drive in Chicago.

Toy drop off spots were Fire stations in Chicago and Los Angeles.

In the Essence article that I read, she was quoted as saying the following to ABC news,

"It's just a good way to keep his memory alive, by blessing other children through the holiday season," 

She also told radaronline.com, "that's what makes me happy during the holiday season -- just to see someone smile and clap or [be] excited, that makes my holiday."

Julian's mother said, "He always had toys. I would come home and see his bike down the street and say, 'Why is your bike down the street?' 'Oh I gave it away.' This would be right up his alley I think," Julia said. "I know he's smiling, something he would have done, exactly."

*inserts applause for Jennifer Hudson and family* This helps put things into perspective around the holiday season! Many of us get so caught up in ourselves and what gifts we receive, yet here's this family that has suffered a great tragedy and finds joy through giving back to others for the sake of their nephew.

What have you done for others this holiday season?

img src=http://www.radaronline.com/sites/radaronline.com/files/imagecache/350width/mavrix_hudson_toys_01%282%29.jpg