Thanks in part to the generosity of my wonderful readers, Florence “Mrs. Claus” Kinney has reached her incredible goal of collecting and donating 100,000 Christmas gifts for children.
If you don’t know her story, here it is in a nutshell:
Florence Kinney is the driving force behind a grassroots ministry which she calls “Santa’s Workshop,” dedicated to bringing presents to children who might not get many gifts, or anything, for Christmas. It began in 2003, with the purchase of just two toy trucks for two brothers who would be spending Christmas in the hospital. In the 33 years since, it has grown to the point where Santa’s Workshop has delivered more than 97,500 gifts. This year she was hoping to put that number over 100,000. (Click here to read more about the Florience and how she got started.)
On my my recent visit a few days ago, Florence told me that a donation she’d received on Tuesday night had put her over her goal, just in time for her volunteer “elves” to swoop in and start packing the toys and clothing items for delivery to agencies all over the Rochester area.
I cannot thank you all enough for helping Florence fulfill what she considers her divine mission. Several of my readers went out and bought brand new toys, socks and winter wear. Others donated new toys and books they had around the house (some which were dropped on my porch anonymously), and more than a few actually sat down and knitted or crocheted dozens of pairs of mittens, hats and scarves.
The Webster Central School District also helped out. When Superintendent Brian Neenan heard that Florence and her elves were going to be short on boxes for their deliveries, he was happy to let me bring her dozens of boxes that were being emptied at the Schlegel Elementary School library.
Here are some more photos of some of Florence’s elves:
“Santa’s Workshop” officially ramped up operations on Monday, when Florence’s elves gathered to start the packing and delivering. When I stopped by to check out the operation, Florence reiterated how grateful she is for all of your help. She considers it a miracle.
As for me, this experience has confirmed my sincere belief that there are a lot of good people out there, and when someone is in need, those good people come out of the woodwork. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping make Florence’s dream a reality.
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(posted 11/19/2022)
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So happy to hear she met her goal. Plan on me to help again next year too. Have a great holiday. Bonnie Steiner