BOSTON – Joy, laughter and a spirit of giving were on display Tuesday at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston as thousands of children from the Corey C. Griffin Charitable Foundation participated in the third annual Corey’s Christmas.
Serving 2,500 children
“It is truly a vision to ensure that all children associated with our program have a great Christmas,” said foundation President Chandra Clark. “Three years have passed and we are proud to serve 2,500 students this year.”
Boys and girls from several nonprofit organizations in the city heard singing and a Christmas message from New England Patriots coach Matthew Slater.
“It’s a great opportunity for all of us to refocus on the true meaning of the Christmas season, so I’m grateful to be here, and for all the people who volunteer their time and resources,” said Slater.
Gifted sliders and speakers
The organization plans the event year-round and provides the kids with the season’s hottest toys and gifts, including custom slides and speakers.
“This was really special, especially for my birthday, and this is really special for all the kids because what if someone needed new shoes or new slippers in the house. And then they got slippers,” said Amaya Vesquez of Lawrence Catholic Academy, who turned 12 this week.
“Our children don’t have many of the blessings that so many other children deserve,” said Father Paul O’Brien, president of Lawrence Catholic Academy. “This is about how much people like the Griffins love our children, how much they want to come into their lives and give them the basics of Christmas.”
The event brought much joy and satisfaction to all participating children.
“We want them to walk away knowing they are loved, seen and celebrated,” Clark said.
Paul Burton
