Tim Harfmann
Hand-written letters from children wanting to help others detail a Christmas wish not to Santa, but to The Tablet’s Editor-in-Chief, Jorge Dominguez.
Twenty-three letters from fourth graders at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Academy in Forest Hills, Queens arrived at The Tablet’s office. Along with their letters these Santa’s helpers had dug deep into their pockets, raising 100 dollars for families through The Tablet’s Bright Christmas Campaign.
“It was a complete surprise,” said Jorge. “I just received this envelope in the mail, and when I opened it, I found a beautiful Christmas present.”
The Tablet’s annual drive gives to those in need can receive gifts, and students at Our Lady of Mercy understand the reason for the season.
“It’s like a fundraiser to raise money so that the poor, who don’t celebrate christmas, can,” explained Xavier Guanco, a fourth grader at the school.
“I felt excited because I wanted to help out poor people who didn’t have money, so they can have a nice Christmas,” said fellow student Lauren Rivera.
“They’re sending a message to the kids who receive the toy for Christmas, that somebody cares about you,” Jorge added.
“Some people think that Christmas is about waking up, getting presents for yourself,” explained fourth grader Flavia Foukas. “I think it’s important to actually give, and it’s something that Jesus would do.”
These students are giving so that others can have a bright Christmas.
If you want to donate to the Bright Christmas team, there is still time to do it. Just send your check to:
The Tablet’s Bright Christmas, 1712 Tenth Ave., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11215.
And this year you have a new option.
Go to – thetablet.org/
Find this link – DONATE: The Tablet Bright Christmas Fund
Click on the link to donate directly with your debit or credit card, or through PayPal.