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ICF Helps Make Talessemia Christmas Party Merry Deborah Rodondi Apostolate Chair On December 5, for the first time, I went into the Children's Hospital Oakland for the Thalessemia Christmas Party. There are no words to properly describe all the feelings and thoughts that went through me. The warmth and love that surrounded us when we entered made me understand that they are not just our National Charity but that they are an important part of our family and we are theirs. The smiles on the faces of the children and their families were beautiful and their excitement at seeing Santa was infectious. Santa (Central Council Member Andy Pappani), his #1 Elf (Grand President Jim Jones), and his many reindeer (yes we were wearing antlers) helped to make the event special for the children and families. I left with a smile and my spirit soaring. Not everyone is able to see first hand that we are an important part of Children's Hospital Oakland. Laurice Levine is more than happy to come to you at a District or Branch meeting to talk to you about everything that is going on and how we are helping. She told me no matter if it is 2 or 50 people, she would love to visit you. You can contact her at LLevine@mail.cho.org or 510-428-3885 ext 5427. Many of the hospitals in your area are in need of help and support. As a branch or district, contact your local hospital and see what you can do for them. The possibilities are endless. We have branches making rosaries that are given to the patients, blankets being made for neo-natal clinics and wellness centers, lap afghans for the elderly, hats for the babies, to name a few things. To make it fun, turn it into a social get together once a month or more and work on the projects as a group. Put the word out in your newsletters for the material you will need. It is amazing how many people have yarn, material, lace etc that they would love to donate to your cause. These little extras mean a lot to the individuals and families at a difficult time. It is a small way for the ICF to give and be a part of our communities. Italian Catholic Federation, 8393 Capwell Drive, Suite 110, Oakland CA 94621 tel: 888/ICF-1924; 510/633-9058; fax: 510/633-9758; Email: info@icf.org Website designed by HYPERSPHERE