Kids revel in generosity, share Christmas at school

SALT LAKE CITY — A fifth-grade boy shuffled into line with the rest of his class — his new snow boots still tied together by the manufacturer's elastic.

In front and behind him were other boys and girls, arms loaded with winter jackets, toys and books furnished by benevolent strangers.

Volunteers from Utah Central Credit Union milled about the gymnasium at Lincoln Elementary Wednesday, doling out presents they collected in anticipation of this yearly tradition when customers, employees and community members pitch in to bring Christmas to an entire school.

"I've been waiting and waiting. Now that I got it, I'm so excited," said Cherish Randall, an 11-year-old who received just what she wanted — the second and third books of the Hunger Games series.

The sixth-grader's teacher knew she loved to read and bought her the first book a few months ago. Since then, Cherish has had her name on a waiting list at the school library for the others, but the anticipation of what her favorite characters were up to has been driving her crazy.

"I just like the adventure," she beamed, adding that she would delve into the hardcovers "as soon as possible."

Moving scenes unfolded across the gym as volunteers picked up wrapping paper and dodged remote-controlled cars and launching rockets. Ninety-five percent of the school's 600 students live below the poverty level. The school is home to a large refugee population, dozens of languages and lots of turnover, said Principal Christine Pittam. Many likely wouldn't get presents this year, she said, as the students feel the impact of their parents' unemployment or unfamiliarity with the traditions and customs of this new place.

"I just don't think people realize that there is such a need and diversity right in Salt Lake," said Sara Parker with Utah Central Credit Union, which has organized the effort for the past 15 years.

The presents the children receive weren't handed out at random; they were curated and hand-picked by people who listened and cared.

Earlier in the year, children created an ornament with their name and a short wish list composed of one item they wanted and one item they needed. Some kids asked for toys and clothes, but there are always a few each year who ask for food, pencils or other basics.