Give yourself a gift - make a child happy

For most children, Christmas is the best time of the year.
However, for some, Christmas can be bleak - with no presents under the tree, not even food or warm clothes.
Moreover, with the economy in a sharp decline, it is imperative that this year, if you can, you dig deep to help a child or a family in need.
In next week’s issue of The Courier, therefore, readers can find letters children and parents have written to Santa as part of the United States Postal Service’s “Operation Santa Claus” Program.
The Courier is asking you, our loyal readers, to open your hearts and wallets and help make these children’s dreams come true.
You can bring a new unwrapped present, toy, game, doll or article of clothing for children from one to 13. Or you may pick a letter, purchase the gift(s) that is asked for, and then bring the new, unwrapped gift to The Courier’s office at 38-15 Bell Boulevard. Clearly label the gift with the letter writer’s name on the present.
In addition to collecting the gifts requested in the letters, The Courier will also be providing gifts for other we find when we deliver all of the presents to these children and families before Christmas Day.
“Operation Santa Claus” is an annual program sponsored by the James A. Farley main office of the United States Postal Service. Each year, letters written by children and adults to Santa Claus are made available by the Post Office to interested members of the public.
In large part, the letters are written by underprivileged children and families who, for economic reasons, face a present-less holiday.
The program began at the main New York Post Office nearly 100 years ago.
Postal clerks in what was then known as the Money Order Division dug into their own pockets to answer Santa’s mail and purchase food and toys for children who faced the unhappiness of an empty Christmas stocking. Through the years, the number of letters increased and the program was opened to the public.
If you want more information on how to help, contact The Courier at 718-224-5863.