Our Story, as told by Marykate
Thirteen years ago, a family at my school lost their father to cancer on Christmas night. His wife and 8 children were left with lots of faith and love but very little money. In order to help make the one year anniversary of his death a bit brighter, the concept of the Santa Hat Society was born. The Santa Hat Society “elves” began working odd jobs such as raking leaves, washing windows, babysitting, cleaning cars & basements and everything in between. We earned over $2,000 which allowed us to provide each child in the family with the top three gifts on their wish list.
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In 2012, we raised over $3,000 to benefit four families. In addition to each child’s wish list, we were also able to provide box seats to three different sporting events and arranged a “meet and greet” with professional athletes. In 2013, we raised over $5,000 to benefit eight families. We achieved this by selling handmade “Hints to Heaven” bracelets. In 2014, we raised over $10,000 to benefit thirteen families. We achieved this by selling earrings handmade by Santa Hat Society elves. We were able to provide numerous toys and electronics to the families. They also enjoyed box seats to four different sporting events and tickets to The David Letterman Show. In 2015, we raised over $17,000 with a Cash Raffle. We helped eighteen families. In 2016, through an Auction & Cash Raffle, we raised over $31,000 and helped thirty-four families.
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Each year, we increase in the number of families we help as well as in donations received. Currently, we average around 50 families per year. During 2023, we brought Christmas joy to 53 families.
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Sending a huge thank you to all who have contributed in some way to the success of this organization!