Adopt-a-Youth

"Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus." These now famous words, written by Francis Pharcellus Church in an editorial for the New York Sun published on September 21, 1897, are an affirmation of adult responsibility for creating hope in the lives of children. Mr. Church went on to say, "He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy."

Santa visits CPPA's Youth Drop-In Center every year, bringing gifts for the youth who gather there for the agency's annual holiday celebration. Current residents, former residents and drop-in clients, along with their children, come together for a holiday meal donated and prepared by all of CPPA's staff members. The youth are reminded that love and generosity exist by the outpouring of gifts contributed by CPPA's large community of friends.

Although some are themselves parents, the teenagers who come to CPPA for services are children too. Most are facing difficult challenges and working hard to find their ways in the world. They have grown-up aspirations, but the same need for love as any other child. Each makes a "wish list" early in November. Most of the items requested are simple necessities like socks, underwear, or clothes for school and work. But youth are encouraged to add some "extras" to their lists: a clock radio, some CD's, make up, games.

Will receiving some gifts for Christmas solve their problems? No. What Mr. Church understood, and most adults know too, is that Santa Claus can be a potent symbol in the lives of the young. They learn to love by being loved. Unlike Virginia, many of CPPA's youth have little experience of love and generosity and devotion. They want to feel special in just the way that having Santa hand them a gift selected just for them makes them feel.

Please join us in celebrating the beauty and joy of the holiday season by participating in CPPA's annual Adopt-a-Youth Program. A $100 contribution supports all of the gifts for one youth or child. Smaller contributions are welcome and will be combined to make sure everyone's wish list is fulfilled. CPPA will shop and wrap for you or, if you prefer, will provide you with a shopping list. Businesses and individuals who want to be a part of CPPA's Adopt-a-Youth program can get more information by calling Maryann at 209 929-6700.