What our community activists did today

[OffWithTheirHeads]

I live in downtown San Jose, California. The demographics here is a wide mix of society. Everything from the homeless who live by the river to some of the more affluent but it's predominantly working class.

For a number of years now, the Neighborhood Action Committee has hosted what they call a Giving Tree Christmas. Without all the boring details, the NAC holds a Christmas party for the neighborhood and gives gifts to all of the children who show up. There are a number of activities for the kids like an arts and crafts table and gifts from Santa. These folks don't skimp on Santa's gifts. There are R.C. Cars, Skateboards, really good stuff! We also try to feed everyone who shows up. The food ain't great. Hot dogs, Chips, Cookies, juice, etc. but it's free.

Last year we had food and gifts left over. This year, most everything was gone, but everyone who showed up got something.

What I noticed most was that the families who showed up late and got, shall we say, the less desirable gifts were as happy with them as the family's that showed up first.

The attendance this year swamped last year but we managed to have enough (by the skin of our teeth) for everyone.

Below are a few pictures of the event.











For all of the pictures go here

http://picasaweb.google.com/cheguaverra/GivingTreeChristmas2009#

[jwirr]

1. Nice idea. Who buys the gifts for your organization?

[OffWithTheirHeads]

6. We get a small grant from the city but most of the effort is Pro Bono

on the part of those that choose to participate.

[jwirr]

8. Wow. Wonderful generous people. Thank you.

[polly7]

2. The looks on their faces are priceless. Great job:) nt.

[OffWithTheirHeads]

11. Unfortunatly, I was working behind the food counter

And my camera has a delay so I couldn't get most of the kids. They usually moved before I could get the expressions on their faces. I did what I could with what I had.

[bigwillq]

3. Awesome.

K and R

[cally]

4. Thank you all for doing this.......nt

.

[Starry Messenger]

5. Beautiful.

:thumbsup:

[proud2BlibKansan]

7. Awesome

[Odin2005]

9. Wonderful pics!

The little girl in the first pic is adorable!

[aikoaiko]

10. Dang it.

Your post makes me want to be a better person.

Thank you.