On December 12th we hosted a Cultural Christmas gathering for the refugee community. The evening was electric with the diversity of families, languages, and religions. As Siri (Santa) and myself (the Elf) entered the room, kids came running to us with huge smiles and excitement yelling “Santa and his helper!”. We headed to the massive gathering of children tugging emphatically at us. Then a special moment occurred as everyone sat quietly and patiently for their name to be called.

Three adults caught my eye. They were just as attentive as their children. When their child’s name was called they would come up, hands raised, pointing at me and saying “That’s my child!” I didn’t expect the same joy and excitement in these parents as in their kids. The room was overflowing with a peaceful, kind and gentle spirit as I watched family partners holding children of refugee families they had befriended and hundreds of children opening gifts, playing and sharing their toys with each other. Later a friend from the night approached me and said: “There’s nothing more exciting than to see a smile that was once lost be put back onto a refugees face.” I agree.

Blessings,

Frank Anello
Founder & Executive Director