NYC initiative brings holiday cheer to kids in need

Mayor Bill de Blasio attended the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony earlier this month. Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office.

By Victoria Merlino

Volunteers from across New York City worked to make the holiday season a little merrier for kids in need during this year’s Secret Snowflake Initiative, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Friday. 

The Secret Snowflake Initiative solicits volunteers to answer holiday letters from children in the shelter system and foster care system, as well as kids utilizing Family Justice Centers throughout the five boroughs. In addition to the 3,200 letters answered this year, businesses donated 2,000 gifts totalling nearly $27,000, including books and sports equipment.

“New Yorkers are kind and generous people and this holiday season many youth in need will know that we have them in our hearts and mind,” de Blasio said in a statement. “I want to thank every volunteer who took time to make someone’s holiday wish come true and all of our private sector partners that donated thousands of gifts to city residents in need.”

Macy’s, HarperCollins and Blick Arts were among the donors for Secret Snowflake. 

“This year, the Secret Snowflake initiative continues to brighten up the holidays for over 1,000 children experiencing homelessness through gifts, including toys, books, and other essentials,” said Department of Homeless Services Administrator Joslyn Carter. “This NYC Service initiative reminds us of the important role communities play in helping New Yorkers in need get back on their feet, during the holidays and beyond."