To the Editor,

In the days leading up to the Christmas Holiday festivities culminating on Dec. 25, Christians everywhere took time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and recall His message of “Joy to the World.”

For many people, however, Christmas can be a time of disappointment — and not joy — due to separation from family or no one to share gifts with them.

But one small charitable organization raised a great deal of money throughout the year to buy needed items like: food baskets ,toys , personal hygiene products, store gift cards ,winter outwear hats, gloves and scarfs and religious books to brighten the holidays for those who may have been deprived of such gifts.

Volunteers from the Johnston location of Spirit of Hope charitable foundation, acting like Red Cross care givers, delivered thousands of dollars worth of necessities like socks and insulated gloves and other cherished wish items to many homeless men at the Providence Rescue Mission in Providence.

Plus food, gift cards, cooking pans, personal toiletries products, clothes and reading pamphlets to hundreds of families and homeless veterans, many who rely on the McAuley House soup kitchen for several meals a day and weekly visits for groceries from their well stocked food pantry, were given directly to the McAuley director, Ms.Kenner for immediate distribution.

For the Providence youngsters who are growing up impoverished, the Spirit of Hope donated over 800 diapers, diaper wipes , and stuffed animals to the Mothers for Life Assistance Center; plus 40 pairs of gloves ,mittens and tokes for pre-schoolers attending classes on the grounds of the John Hope Settlement House on the west side of Providence.

In similar fashion , 15 food baskets , numerous food coupons and personal care backpacks were handed out to needy individuals referred to us by our sponsors and SOH board members. All in all it was a very enriching experience for both the givers and receivers during the Christmas and Hanukah religious observations of the season.

In closing, Louis Spremulli- founder and President of “Spirit of Hope” charitable foundation, was extremely pleased that his generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers stepped up to the cause of rendering help to those in our region who need it most. And that more altruistic people will join him in donating time and money to the religiously based foundation so that more “joy” can continue to spread further into the hearts and minds of those still seeking our support. Interested persons can reach this charity by calling 401-374-4590 for information. Become a sponsor and enjoy the feeling of giving to those in need!

Paul Orlando Marketing Director

Louis Spremulli, President, Spirit of Hope