December 22nd, 2017
Looking out the window into the Secret Garden it’s hard to imagine that Christmas is next week….. Inside the House it’s very clear that something special is happening. There are beautiful villages carefully placed in the Great Room, tree lights twinkle, snowmen and Santa’s smile and there is magic in the air. Each and every day wonderful people from places near and far are dropping off donations from Wishlist drives and holiday party toy collections- and we are grateful. The fireplace burns, casting a warm glow as families snuggle on the couches reading. The playroom is filled with princesses and firefighters who are giggling and saving the world. Countless groups have spent time in our kitchens creating delicious snacks from scratch making our Lunches-2-Go even more special. The sights and sounds of the holidays are present for these families who are very far from home and the spirit of the season is alive and well here in the House that Love Built. Memories are being made as carols are sung and Santa visits. Friendships are formed around the kitchen tables where cookies are decorated. The gifts of Christmas, those wrapped and those found in the smile of a volunteer bless our families – and we are grateful.
As I anticipate my third holiday season in the House I continue to be astonished every day by the love that surrounds this mission and the people who give so generously of their time and talent to sustain it – and I am grateful.
Bridget Kesner, Director of Philanthropy
