Santa's Helpers Wrap Hundreds of Gifts

Now in its 21st year, the “Santa’s Helpers” program at NewYork-Presbyterian/Hudson Valley Hospital in Cortlandt Manor has been brightening the holidays for deserving children in surrounding communities.

Each year, the hospital works with local social service agencies to obtain holiday “wish lists” from families in need. In turn, NYP/HVH employees forego spending money on holiday gift exchanges and instead donate the money to a gift-giving fund.

This year, volunteers spent $125 each on more than 900 gifts for 118 children and their families in the area. Since 1994, this program has raised more than $350,000 to purchase gifts for more than 1,600 Westchester children and their families.

Pictured from left to right: Sue Lepore; John Federspiel, President; Mrs. Claus and Santa, Denise Pilla; and Maureen DiMaggio/contributed