It’s the most wonderful time of the year, right? For many of us, the holiday season brings abundance and a sense of togetherness that creates a unique atmosphere of merriment and cheer. For some, however, even December 25th isn’t a reprieve from their misfortune. This year, hopefully, a few hundred of those less fortunate kids will wake up on Christmas morning feeling a bit more merry and bright.
Introducing CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocates. A program through Mental Health Advocates of WNY who advocate for children caught up in severe cases of neglect and abuse. The volunteers running CASA see unimaginable circumstances for the children of our community and strive to offer them care and comfort as they move through the foster care system or other home transitions. CASA played an instrumental role in Hope for the Holidays- acting essentially as Santa’s messenger. The organization collected wishlists from the children and families in their cases and presented them to Hope Rises to then be paired with local businesses who could fulfill them.
“The children that we are working with are children that are usually displaced. So, that means that they have less of the chances Santa Claus is showing up, in a sense. But, they also don’t have everything that they would normally have. So these little things like socks, or even toys, or coats. Those things are now right there for them.”
-Brandi Alfiero, CASA Volunteer
Along with CASA, the Niagara Falls School District administrators provided wishlists from dozens of kids. Individuals and families came to Hope Rises directly to ask for help. The wishlists poured in- almost to an overwhelming number. Thankfully though, so too did donor support.
After putting calls out on social media, asking around to friends and family, and speaking with local business owners, the community rallied around these children. When last-minute wishlists were received, donors were found who were eager to help at a moment’s notice. There was never fear that a child would go unprovided for, because the generosity of Western New York never fails to follow through. When all was said and done, nearly 300 individual children had gifts with their names on them.
For the finishing touches, volunteers poured in- tape and scissors in hand- to wrap. Gifts of all shapes and sizes were wrapped tight and tied with a bow; from toys and electronics, to bedsheets and necessities like socks and underwear. In some cultures, they’re Santa’s elves. In WNY culture, they’re good people with a desire to help and create Christmas magic for those who need it most.
An initiative like this serves as a reminder of the true reason of the season: to give. Whether you’re giving a gift, a word of kindness, or a passing smile to a stranger, it all makes a difference. And for nearly 300 children across Western New York, out of the kindness of complete strangers, Christmas might feel a little more merry and bright this year.
