Santa’s elf, Velvet Davis of Bessemer, is busy collecting toys, coats, food boxes and other donated items to ensure a happy Christmas for the children of local veterans on Christmas morning. She is president of Home Front Housing for the Green and Blue organization.
A native of Bessemer, Velvet retired from Cox Broadcasting Corp. in 2011 after 36 years as a stalwart employee. She also made time to work as a travel agent for 30 years. She has been a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Bessemer for 65 years.
Always with a smile, Velvet has been a member of the Bessemer Area Chamber of Commerce for 30 years. She is a joy and a truly dedicated citizen of Bessemer with a bubbly personality.
Velvet enjoys a wonderful life, especially during the Christmas season when she is happiest serving others.
Interview with Velvet Davis
When was Home Front Housing established?
Velvet: Home Front was established in 2011 in Bessemer. A 501 (c) (3) non-profit, our mission is safe housing for our veterans. We work with the VA and United Way/Priority to Veterans.
Tell me about the Soldier Tree Toy Drive?
Velvet: We accept applications from wounded, deployed and fallen veterans for our Soldier Tree Toy project. Started in 2013, we will provide Christmas presents to 100 children this year.
Do you have a favorite Christmas memory?
Velvet: I have many happy childhood Christmas memories. As a child I would hurry home after midnight mass at St. Francis and get in bed before Santa arrives.
What is your favorite meal?
Velvet: I enjoy a delicious southern meal including fried chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots, English peas, rolls and for dessert a slice of sour cream pound cake.
Do you have a favorite Christmas carol?
Velvet: I certainly do. Silent Night is my favorite carol. It was a holy night when Jesus was born.
Are you a native of Bessemer?
Velvet: Yes sir, I am. Yes sir. I was born in Bessemer at the former Bessemer General Hospital. I am the oldest and only girl of four children to Betty and John Sumpter. I have two adult children, Darius, 44, and Maci, 36, 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. I am also a former wife of a veteran.
What gives you joy?
Velvet: My greatest joy comes from helping others. It gives me a sense of purpose.
