The holiday season is marked by generosity and kindness, especially during Christmas, and Brazil is no exception to this spirit. This year, the renowned campaign 'Papai Noel dos Correios' has set a remarkable record, fulfilling 100% of the letters sent by children across the nation. The Brazilian postal service, Correios, announced the fulfillment of over 370,000 dreams, which amounts to 100,000 more than last year's tally. The campaign, now celebrating its 35th anniversary, has once again demonstrated its capability to bring joy to many children from socioeconomically vulnerable backgrounds who send letters to Santa Claus, sharing their Christmas wishes.
The program, which has grown significantly over the years, functions through the collaboration of the public and private sectors. Individuals and businesses have adopted 320,000 letters this year, contributing to the collection and delivery of gifts to eager children. Notably, toys seized or abandoned by the Receita Federal were also donated to the campaign this year, adding 50,000 additional gifts to the project. This initiative has created not only excitement but also community involvement as people from different sectors and backgrounds come together to make Christmas special for countless children.
Adding to the spirit of giving, unique partnerships have flourished as seen with the linking of the Correios to the National Justice Council, which ensured the wishes of 8,000 children from shelters were also realized. This collaboration demonstrates how different entities can unite for the greater good, providing comfort and joy to children who might otherwise go without during the festive period. To celebrate these achievements, Correios organized festive parades featuring illuminated vehicles across various Brazilian capitals throughout November and December.
While the 'Papai Noel dos Correios' campaign reaches children widely, other initiatives work to touch the hearts of those living in isolated areas. Jorge Alberto Barroso, known as the local Santa Claus, undertakes the admirable task of delivering toys to children residing along the riverbanks of the Amazon. For 26 years, Barroso, who is also trained as an electronics technician, has transformed himself each Christmas season to bring hope and joy to kids living under challenging circumstances.
Despite the arduous problems posed by the dry season and the difficulties of reaching remote regions, Barroso enthusiastically states, “É só ter coragem, paciência e amor. Quem tem amor faz tudo,” which translates to, “You just need courage, patience, and love. Those with love can do anything.” His commitment has resulted in over 5,000 toys being distributed this year through the project “Amigos do Papai Noel.” Such community efforts not only provide presents but also embody the spirit of giving and solidarity as numerous friends join him each year to support this initiative.
Among these helpers is Pedro Carvalho, who has assisted Barroso for two decades. His sentiment captures the joy of giving: “Não existe coisa melhor. Ver o sorriso de uma criança não tem preço,” or “There’s nothing quite like it. Seeing the smile on a child’s face is priceless.” Their collective efforts are complemented by artisans like Laércio Valvassoura, who for eight years has crafted handmade dolls for children, illustrating how sharing time and skills enriches the experience.
For children like seven-year-old Alexandra Feitoza, the joy of receiving gifts brings magic to the holiday season. Alexandra excitedly recounted receiving various gifts, including toys and even practical items like toothbrushes, highlighting how such gestures, no matter their nature, can create unforgettable memories. “Eu ganhei uma bola, um livro, uma boneca e uma escova de dente. Gostei de tudo!” translates to “I got a ball, a book, a doll, and even a toothbrush! I liked everything!” Her joy encapsulates the impact of these initiatives and the essence of Christmas.
Christmas 2024 has showcased not just the delight of giving but the powerful stories of those ready to sacrifice their time and resources for the benefit of others, hence reaffirming Brazil’s commitment to compassion and community spirit. The efforts of both Correios and local volunteers embody the sentiment of unity and reflect the heartwarming truth: the best gift of all is the hope and happiness shared this festive season.
