The story of St. Nicholas, which is based on generosity and humility, is an inspiration for a lot of people all around the world. Thanks to his kindness, St. Nicholas has become patron of all kids. That is why all the kids are looking forward to December 6^th. In Ukraine some kids will wake up on the St. Nicholas’ morning later, because it is multicultural country with different traditions and habits. Until now, St. Nicholas was celebrated in the country on December 6^th and December 19^th. Although this year in Charitas-Spes Luck they are celebrating St. Nicolas day only on December 6^th. For the last two years, because of ongoing war in Ukraine, celebrations of St. Nicholas day took over another dimension. They are source of happiness, joy, and love, which are necessary in the current situation.

In Slovakia, in the morning of December 6^th, children receive presents and sweets from St. Nicholas in their cleaned boots. In Ukraine it is a little bit different. St. Nicholas leaves his gifts and sweets under the pillow. In the morning, when kids wake up, they can find their gifts immediately. However, it depends on the region. Somewhere, children look for a sweet surprise in their boots, same as in Slovakia. The sweet surprise brings them joy as the Father Pavlo Khomiak, coordinator of Caritas-Spes Luck, wrote us: “Children enjoy every sweet. When we asked them which one they liked the most, they said the big ones.” Sweets, little things or prepared activities make all kids happy. This day is very special and celebratory for them.

This year St. Nicholas from Caritas-Spes Luck will visit more than five hundred kids, including 260 children from orphanages, 102 children with HIV, children with disabilities, Down syndrome kids, and autism. Workers from Caritas-Spes Luck try to celebrate and make holidays more enjoyable for poor children in this area. Except of sweets, they are giving them basic things, that will make their lives better, easier, and more enjoyable. For example, they are trying to provide for them winter shoes, new bed sheets or warm clothes.

Days full of kid’s smiles are for a lot of our Slovak donors an inspiration to join our project. We are very happy, that thanks to you, Christmas holidays can be a lot nicer and pleasant for the kids in need. Thank you for your support.