Nothing can be more heartbreaking than not being able to give a child the Christmas they dream of. Luckily, for families across Rhode Island, Santa got some extra help from a very special group of volunteers.“Esperanza-Hope” in partnership with the nonprofit organization Lights & Sirens International hosted the Adopt a Family for Christmas program.

Thanks to donors generosity they were able to adopt 13 disadvantaged families in Rhode Island (Cranston, East Providence, Central Falls, Pawtucket, Woonsocket and Warren). They were able to serve 13 families (45 people); each family received a Christmas presents, in addition they received foodbaskets, and gifts cards/certificates. The presents were delivered to the families on Monday, December 24, 2018. “Esperanza-Hope’s annual Adopt A Family for Christmas is a way to show kindness and support to those who are feeling the pain of poverty and misfortune,” said Wilda Gutierrez, President of Esperanza-Hope.

Esperanza-Hope is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization with a mission to bring hope and inspire a positive vision of the future for the children in the community in Rhode Island and for children in the poorest communities of the Dominican Republic. Their charitable services include donating books, backpacks filled with school supplies, clothing, shoes, toys, sports equipment and more to needy children.

“Our aim is to foster in children a more positive outlook by providing the tools necessary for success. In order to meet our missions and provide services to children locally and globally we surprise the children with these items on the streets, shelters, schools and Children’s Hospital. In addition, our charitable services include a monthly visit to our local homeless in Rhode Island and give them clothing, shoes and personal care items,” Gutierrez said.