Miracles do happen. Just ask Fred Makowecki and then look at the 113 children who now have Christmas thanks to the efforts of supporters of the Morgan Jayne Project.
Just a few short weeks ago, Familias Saludables in the Roatan made its appeal for the ninth annual Christmas Miracle. Through this, they identified dozens of families served by the organization, and ask supporters to make Christmas happen for the children. These are some of the poorest children in the world.
After nine years, the supporters didn’t disappoint and delivered a miracle.
"It is a pretty good feeling,” said Fred Makowecki. “When Morgan died and we started this, one of my biggest fears was that it wouldn’t carry on after I passed away, that would be the end of it, but I don’t think I am worried about that now.”
This certainly was not a lavish list, it was simply three modest gifts for each child, as well as some dress clothes, shoes and a book.
This is the second year they have made this a virtual effort. After years of collecting items from generous donors and shipping them independently at a considerable expense. To streamline this they made a wish list on Amazon, whereby the items can be shipped to Florida virtually free of charge. From there, they are transported to the Roatan. This has saved considerable amounts on shipping.
“We have eliminated about $8,000 in shipping costs, which in my conscience is a great relief,” said Makowecki, adding he saw donations come in from as far away as Australia and South America.
While this has saved a considerable amount on shipping, allowing the resources to go to those who need them the most, there are still some expenses faced by the project to get the items through customs and duty.
“There are more pluses by doing this with Amazon, we are certainly not wasting money with shipping. One of the negatives is we had money for the party. Now we just buy the presents,” he said.
Those wishing to support the Christmas party where the gifts are distributed, or to help with customs and duties, can do so by donating funds to Makowecki at Image Crafter, or by donating to the Dawn Land Foundation. at www.dawnlandfoundation.com
