Financial Credit Network Helps to Make Spirits Bright at Christmas

There are very few opportunities in our industry where we get to be seen as the hero so when that time comes, you grab it!  Ann’s Kids for Christmas is one of those opportunities…

December 13, 2014 was just an ordinary Saturday, but for 313 very special children in Tulare County, the day turned out to be magical.  Each little one had been chosen to attend the 31^st annual Ann’s Kids for Christmas Party!

An announcement of their arrival resounded in the auditorium.  As they entered, each child was greeted by a line of elves (volunteers) wishing them a Merry Christmas and welcoming them with numerous high fives, smiles and jolly faces.  What would the remainder of the party be like?  Anticipation filled the air!

The Ann’s Kids for Christmas Program has a rich history of touching the lives of literally thousands of children over its 31 year history.  The program works with staff members and teachers from various local schools to help select children between the ages of 3 and 10.  Without this event, many of these children may not have the chance to experience the magic of Christmas.

The program gives the children an opportunity to enjoy pizza, lemonade, cookies, fruit, new sweatshirts, new (age appropriate) books, new shoes and new socks.  The biggest moment of all is the arrival of Santa and the opportunity for him to visit with each child, giving each a special Christmas gift, and hearing each of their hopes and wishes for Christmas.

What an amazing day! Smiles and the laughter filled the room as the children looked around to see all the wonders of the amazing day.  “We even get shoes?” said one young girl.  The volunteer’s response was “Yes, along with three new pair of socks.”  Her response “O.M.G I’m going to cry!”  And then, just as quickly as it started, the event was over.  Each child walked back to the buses sporting a new pair of shoes and carrying a huge bag of gifts.  Each volunteer left with a full heart.

Financial Credit Network, Inc. has supported the program since the early 1980’s.  In 2013, FCN took over from the founders of the event and now is responsible for coordinating the efforts of the volunteers, fundraising and purchasing toys, sweatshirts, socks and shoes.

For more information on how you or your company can get involved with Ann’s Kids for Christmas 2015 please contact Venita Jourdan at 800-540-9011 or vjour@fcnetwork.com or visit their web site at www.fcnetwork.com to see a video montage of the history of the event.