Elvira's Gift For Hope Foundation Helping Local Families Over the Holidays

REGION—Since Elvira Protano launched her charity several months ago, she has raised awareness and funds to help families suffering from breast cancer who are having trouble with mounting debt and expenses.

Now, her Foundation used the holidays to help out area families in need by giving others a chance to receive some holiday cheer.

Elvira’s Gift For Hope Foundation aided families affected by breast cancer through donations from the community. Protano, a Woonsocket native and Stage Two Breast Cancer Survivor, said with time and effort being used for researching for a cure, there are more pressing needs for families to handle their budgets and pay for holiday wish lists.

“The holidays can be stressful enough without the added burden of not having enough money for gifts,” said Protano. “We want to aid in those families—whether they are large families or a single person—who might not have enough to enjoy the season.”

The program worked similar to a “Secret Santa,” in which the Foundation received a list of items the recipient wants from a potential recipient (or from someone who wants to remain anonymous about their donation). Protano went out to obtain and deliver them to the recipient.

Protano said several area families received a helping hand from the Foundation’s generosity.

The Emmanuel family (location withheld) lost his wife from breast cancer on November 8. She left behind her husband and four children. Protano said her Foundation got the request and was able to make their holiday somewhat brighter.

“He was so grateful; he will never forget it,” she said/ “The family was overwhelmed by our support. We gave him and his kids over $600 in toys and other gifts. We also gave him a $100 Stop and Shop gift card for groceries.”

She said Elvira’s Gift for Hope Foundation raised more than $7,000 this year to help individuals and families dealing with breast cancer offset expenses such as bills and food to providing comfort to those battling this disease.

It is not always the material things that people need during this time that makes them happy, said Protano.

“One of the things my Foundation does is help out with the daily expenses when people are unable to work because of their ailments and everything that becomes associated with fighting the disease,” said Protano. “The woman was elated that she could drive her car again, and we didn’t tell her where the money came from. Think of it as a holiday miracle.”

More details about the event and contributing to the Elvira’s Gift For Hope Foundation can be obtained by contacting Elvira Protano at (401) 787-5638 or by email at: elvirasgiftforhope.15@gmail.com.