The flurry of generosity poured in like a New England snowstorm during our first-ever Wait List Wish List campaign. In less than three weeks, more than 60 members of the Big Sister community purchased coats, hats, scarves, and gloves for 75 girls waiting for a Big Sister. This year, we reached out to the families on our wait list in an effort to support them during the holiday season.
In a letter sent home to the families, we asked each girl to tell us what she enjoys most about winter, what she wishes for, and why she wants a Big Sister. Here’s what a few of them had to say:
Emely, age 10, lives in Mattapan with her mom, brother and sister.
“My favorite things about wintertime are that I can play in the snow, make snowmen and have HOT CHOCOLATE! I want a Big Sister because when I go home, no one will play with me, and almost no one understands my homework.”
Carlisha, age 11, lives in Dorchester with her mother and brother.
“My favorite things about wintertime are the snow and Christmas. If I could have one wish it would be to see Justin Bieber. I want a Big Sister because I could go out with her and talk.”
Dameka, age 12, lives in Mattapan with her mother and five brothers.
“My favorite things about wintertime are the snow, hot cocoa, Christmas and family time.
If I could have one wish it would be to play basketball in the WNBA. I want a Big Sister because I want someone to talk to and laugh with. I have only brothers and I’m lonely.”
The girls on the wait list weren’t the only ones inspiring us though! As a Christmas gift to each other, a husband and wife provided coats, gloves, and scarves for 12 of the girls who live in Dorchester. A former Big Sister bought winter gear for two of the girls, even though she currently lives in Singapore! Many of our staff and Board members also purchased items for girls on the list.
We witnessed the holiday spirit bringing joy to the girls and their families on our wait list as each eagerly arrived at our office to pick up their items, and left with brightly wrapped packages and smiles on their faces. Thank you to those supporters who made this time of year a little warmer for all of them. With your continued generosity, we look forward to putting a Big Sister in each of their lives as well.
