Children of the City Understands That Santa Couldn't Do It Without You

Amidst the difficult economy, New Yorkers came together to help hundreds of disadvantaged families at Children of the City's Christmas event on Saturday December 19, 2009.

Over 600 children and 100 adults were invited to ourght headquarters (740 40th Street, Brooklyn) where 1,000+ toys and gifts were distributed by special guests including Captain Raymond of the 72nd Police Precinct, a contingent of officers including Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a full complement of elves.

Actor and stuntman J.W. Cortes spoke with the children before pitching in to help distribute the brand-new toys.

Prior to the event our headquaters was filled with the joy of volunteers dropping off brand-new toys and socializing at our gift-wrapping parties. “One individual drove 3 hours from his home the day before our distribution event, to purchase and to deliver to us gifts for a child because the gifts he ordered online did not arrive on time. We are proud of our partners and volunteers who gave selflessly to make Christmas special this year for hundreds of children”said Joyce Mattera, Founder and Executive Director.

“It was so moving to work with the various agencies who gave gifts including New York Cares who selected Children of the City as an official Winter Wishes partner; children were able to write a letter requesting specific gifts that New York Cares partner companies were able to fulfill. We were able to connect the neediest children with our partners because of our direct in-home contact with the children and families in the communities we serve” said Joyce Mattera.

Christmas toys and gifts were donated by several partners of Children of the City, including St. John's Bread and Life, New York Cares, Brooklyn's 72nd Police Precinct, Basile Builders, L'Oréal, Citigroup, NYCRC, Brianna's Hair Salon, Citigroup, HOK, the US Attorney’s Office, the MTA, the Board of Directors of Children of the City, and dozens of individuals.