Boys Town South Florida Families Filled with Hope

Each year, Boys Town South Florida brings healing and hope to parents who would not otherwise have means of purchasing holiday presents for their children. In its 20th year, Hope for the Holidays has provided gift sponsors for 838 youth, this year alone. 

"I had to think about which bill I could pay, the electricity or buying presents for my children. I had to choose the electric bill,” said one Boys Town South Florida parent. Hope for the Holidays allows families in these situations to have both.  

"Considering the recession, we weren't sure if we could get as many sponsors, but we exceeded the number of sponsors from last year and that in itself is overwhelming," said Boys Town South Florida Hope for the Holidays Project Manager, Lili Lopez-Smith, A.K.A the “Head-Elf.” "I've been working on this project for 11 years and I love to do it. It’s my project and I really believe that kids should have a Christmas. The shock on the parents’ faces is priceless when we roll up with all the gifts."

Parents have been overwhelmed by the generosity of strangers, according to Boys Town South Florida Executive Director Amy Simpson. The youth have received bikes, toy kitchens, skateboards and more. One child even got a Barbie car to ride in, said Simpson. 

Sponsors included Boston Proper, United Way, Children’s Services Council, United Methodist Church, Jupiter First Church, Plastec, Accurate Glassworks, Plastridge Insurance, G4S, a local motorcycle group and countless families and individuals. “We thank them all for their support,” said Boys Town South Florida Development Director Noemi Coltea.