Hudson Valley Hospital Center Santa’s Helpers Wrap 700 Gifts

Cortlandt Manor, NY - (December 18, 2013) – Santa’s Helpers at Hudson Valley Hospital Center wrapped mountains of gifts on December 18 to make holiday wishes come true for local children and their families.

In an annual tradition, staff and local girl scouts and community members wrapped more than 700 gifts that will be donated to local social services agencies and delivered to families in need. Pajamas and books, dolls, trucks, musical instruments and art supplies, boots, socks and tons of toys, clothing and other gifts were packaged in less than two hours, beating last year’s record.

This year – the 18th year of Santa’s Helpers - the Hospital spent $125 per child on 93 children. The Santa’s Helpers project is also delivering gifts to 44 families and 1 group home.

Sue Lepore, facilitator of the program in the administration office at HVHC, said she has seen a change over the years as larger donors step forward to make up for those who are affected in a down economy.

This year, the Paramount Theatre donated $600 from the proceeds of its December 8 performance of the Nutcracker. Kitah Hay (fifth grade) at the Reform Temple of Putnam Valley raised over $500, shopping and wrapping gifts for five children.

“We had some very generous anonymous donations this year,’’ said Lepore. “These children ask for so little, some asking only for basic necessities such as shampoo and blankets. We try to meet those requests and then add a little extra to make it a holiday to remember.’’

Hospital employees held several fundraisers as well including three days when employees paid $10 each for the right to wear denim to work and six 50/50 raffles.