No, not because it is December 9th. Today is the annual Kiwanis Christmas Party here in Hammonton, NJ. Of all the help we provide to the community, this event is by far my favorite. And this year is more special than usual as I was installed as the club president back in October.
For those who do not know, Kiwanisis an international organization dedicated to helping children. Here in Hammonton we sponsor events, give scholarships, and participate in various programs that help the children in our community. The most touching of which is the annual Christmas Party.
Each year the school nurse helps us to identify under privileged children in our town. She then coordinates acquiring a wish list from each child so we can make every effort to insure they get want they would like for Christmas.
Last night, with much help from The Key Club of Hammonton High School, we hit the store to shop. Two hours later we had filled my wife's Ford Explorer with toys. Every child gets at least two items, whether it be toys, clothes, or whatever else they need. From there we carted the toys off to the local fire hall. My thanks to Hammonton Fire Department, Station #1 for use of their facilities.
Another group of Key Club students met us their to begin wrapping all of the gifts. Knowing that this is an especially difficult year for so many families, we also received additional toys through a generous donation from Toys For Tots. Nino's Pizzarama supplied pizza for the wrappers and J Morano & Sons Inc donated the wrapping paper.
Tonight is the night of the big party. The children begin to arrive at 6:00. The will be greeted by Christmas Carols being sung by the Hammonton High School Choir. Dinner for the children will be provided by Joe Italiano's Maplewood Inn. Then, about 7:15 this evening, Santa arrives. Each child will be called up by name and receive their presents.
This is truly magical to see. We often take much in life for granted, but these children do not. For some, it will be the only taste of Christmas they will get this year. The letters that follow... some from parents and some from the children... will remind us of what the holidays are all about. Tonight is the night will we will reach out and make their lives brighter.
