Thank you: Your caring made Christmas dreams come true

It is hard to describe exactly what it is like to be a volunteer at the Empty Stocking Fund Party.

There are stories that break your heart and children who remind you just why you spend hours on your feet every Christmas season.

There are the squeals, the wide eyes and the boys and girls who are sharing their first moments with Santa Claus.

There are children who are a bit older, who understand how hard a year it has been for their families and who wish for nothing for themselves -- just gifts for their younger brothers and sisters.

There are more than a few polite youngsters who answer every question with a "yes, ma'am" and those who will not leave without a "thank you" and a hug.

And there are parents who wipe away tears as they thank the volunteers and share a moment of happiness with a child who is as excited about the new clothes he or she received as he or she is about the new toy.

It is a day of heart. It is a day of joy, and it is a stark reminder of how many children and families there are who are struggling to get through the holiday season.

We share these stories of our day because we know that the kind people who support this effort every year would love to be there, to hand a toy to a child personally or to talk with one of the parents who has brought them to the party.

Many of you make a donation to the Empty Stocking Fund a family holiday tradition. You include a special memorial to a loved one or a tribute to someone in your life who makes your Christmas special.

And there are a myriad of local organizations -- especially those that work with children -- who take up a collection every year to make sure no child in Wayne County will be without a toy this Christmas.

We salute all of you. We know how lucky we are to be part of a community that puts giving first every holiday season. There are not many places where a party like this would receive the support it does here. That makes this a special place.

If you have not gotten around to donating this year and still want to help, we still need you -- there are bills left to pay.

And if you can find the time, come to our Christmas with the Embers benefit concert Monday -- there are still tickets available. A portion of the proceeds from that event goes to help the children as well. (Plus it is one of those concerts that focuses on the true meaning of the season.)

So thanks again, from the bottom of our hearts. You have helped us once again make dreams come true.

Published in Editorials on December 14, 2013 10:02 PM