Santa’s elves worked very hard his month to make sure Santa visits every boy and girl in Manchester Township this year. Through the generosity of schools and community, the annual Manchester Township School District Kevin’s Kids Christmas Drive was able to raise about $30,000 to help over 300 needy children and their families. In addition to the financial donations, hundreds of toys and clothing items were donated.

Program founder Kevin Burger said that the 25th year of this drive was “the greatest year ever,” with a record 321 children and 134 families served. 

“To everyone in the community who donated and volunteered – teachers, students, the senior communities, local businesses, everybody - please know that for so many of these families, without you there would simply be no Christmas,” said Burger.  “Without you, Christmas would be just another day of hoping to put food on the table or that those hand me down clothes would only last a little longer.  Because of your generosity these families can now enjoy Christmas, and perhaps see hope in the New Year.  Because of you, each child can experience the excitement of that special toy.  Because of you, that child can be excited for the first time to return to school with a new outfit and a brand new pair of sneakers.  So please know how much each child appreciates your gift.”

Burger said he is always touched by the enthusiasm of the students and teachers who come up with creative fundraising activities for the drive, and by the number of willing volunteers who help with the drive, many of whom come back year after year.  “A group of teachers and staff were out at 6:30 in the morning on Saturday to start a day of shopping and then worked well into the evening organizing gifts,” said Burger.  “Then on Sunday, the middle school gym was filled with over 200 volunteers who wrapped thousands of gifts and bagged them up for parents to pick up and put under the tree.”

“This year, pick-up time was very emotional as some parents broke down into tears when they saw how much this caring community had done for them and their children.  They were just amazed.

“And so now that our job is done for another year, may I extend my thanks again along with my wish that your own holiday season be filled with the happiness and the love that you shared with so many others.”

[Kevin's Kids Thank You Letter]