Help Brighten the Lives of Children in Poverty

Throughout the world one of the many traditions that is associated with Christmas is that of gift giving. For children in particular, receiving a gift at Christmas is exciting and makes them feel special. However, for families that live in extreme poverty and struggle to just put food on the table, giving their child a gift at Christmas is an unattainable dream. And because Community Action Alliance (CAA) is committed to brightening the lives of children in poverty, we stepped in to help again this year as in previous years.

Members of CAA’s Board of Directors identified a number of families with small children who needed help. December is the coffee picking season here in Costa Rica and many migrant workers come with their families from neighboring countries to pick coffee and hopefully earn enough money to sustain themselves for the next year back home. While here, they live on a basic substance level so Christmas presents for their children are not within even the remotest possibility. In addition, there were other Costa Rican families who are living in extreme poverty conditions that were added to the list.

Throughout November and early December, CAA members and friends generously provided the funds to purchase a variety of toys and gifts for children from ages 1-9.  Dolls, trucks, soccer balls, games, stuffed animals were collected and wrapped by happy volunteers. And over a two-day period, CAA elves delivered the gifts to almost 60 boys and girls creating smiles not only for the children but for the parents as well.

While the purpose of this activity was to provide gifts of the season to others, we actually received a significant gift for ourselves – the knowledge that through our goodwill and effort we were able to make a difference in the lives of many children and their families in our adopted community.  We express our sincere thanks to all who contributed.

May your 2024 bring you many opportunities for joy, gratitude, and service.