SANTA’S little HELPERS

For the last 15 years, Val and I have had the joy of being ‘Santa’s little helpers’. Let me explain. Christmas is not a happy occasion for all families - putting food on the table every day can be difficult, so more expensive festive food is out of the question. Cue to our friend who wishes to remain anonymous. Each year I get a phone call from him asking if we are free to deliver again. 
Val and I meet him in a Hamilton Supermarket carpark at a pre-arranged time and day a week before Christmas. He parks his car next to ours and then we offload the most amazing array of Christmas goodies for delivery to a family. The best of meats, treats, goodies and a voucher. Laden boxes are transferred with smiles and happy conversations. In past years, he has had his own children involved in selecting suitable items and for the last two years, our Auckland granddaughter has come with us too.

We hug and shake hands with our friend and tears fill our eyes. We are such big softies! 

After saying our goodbyes Val and I head towards the unsuspecting families house. Apart from this year, we have no idea if the family is home or not. A knock on the door and we wait…The door often opens slowly. Introductions and explanations are made and the looks of astonishment and delight are always memorable. Family members are called out to the car and help bring boxes inside. Grateful thanks and hugs follow and Val and I drive off, leaving the family to sort the goodies out. 

Going back home to Raglan I ring our friend to say how things went. Our conversation is always emotional and happy. We thank him again for his generosity and he thanks us for helping out.

We love being a part of this day, bringing unexpected happiness to a family at Christmas time that may not have happened except for the generosity of our friend. 


POINTS to PONDER

Giving generously and anonymously happens more often in New Zealand/Aotearoa than we think.

Are you one of those people? If so, thanks!

Could you somehow be a conduit for someone else’s generosity?

Such giving is a wonderful example to children. Perhaps they too will continue to be involved in helping people whose need is greater than theirs.

PLEASE NOTE: This is my last blog post for 2023. The first blog post for 2024 is on Thursday 18 January. Merry Christmas!


Comments

  1. alizFebruary 12, 2025 at 12:34 PM

    What a truly heartwarming story of kindness and community spirit! Val and the author’s role as “Santa’s little helpers” exemplifies the power of generosity, especially when done anonymously. It’s clear that this act of giving isn’t just about delivering food, but about creating a ripple effect of love and connection. The thoughtful care that their friend puts into selecting gifts and the joy that it brings to the families they help is incredible. This act isn’t only a gift to those in need, but also a gift to the volunteers themselves, who experience the profound impact of selfless giving. It’s a beautiful reminder of how simple acts of kindness can bring real joy during the holiday season, and it encourages others to consider how they might give back, not for recognition but out of pure compassion. What a wonderful way to inspire future generations to be just as generous and thoughtful in their own lives.
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