While most children are making a list and checking it twice, many are just thankful for everyday necessities such as food and clothing. But The Children’s Hope Chest (CHC), a grassroots organization that began in Purchase, recognizes all children need to have their wishes granted, and will help make holiday dreams come true for a seventh consecutive year.

While most children are making a list and checking it twice, many are just thankful for everyday necessities such as food and clothing. But The Children’s Hope Chest (CHC), a grassroots organization that began in Purchase, recognizes all children need to have their wishes granted, and will help make holiday dreams come true for a seventh consecutive year.

The group’s successful program, Hope for the Holidays, provides local children in need with their exact holiday gift wish. This year, CHC will make the holidays special for at least 800 children in the Bronx and Westchester through partnerships with the Carver Center, Andrus Children’s Center, Neighbor to Neighbor, My Sister’s Place, YMCA Camping Services of Greater NY, Friends of Karen, the Bronx YMCA, and the Pleasantville Cottage School.

“We’re a great local organization that helps out in the community, and that’s important,” said Mark Canno, a Rye Neck tennis and golf coach who volunteers with CHC. “This charity has gotten bigger every year and nobody involved makes a cent from it. Even with the economy what it is, we’ve realized there are many people in the area who still want to help out.”

The Children’s Hope Chest, with the cooperation of the Bronx YMCA and the Carver Center, is able to make the month extra special for the neediest families. They provide parents of the children they serve with the opportunity to “shop” for their children’s gifts. Volunteers create a celebration at their respective locations, and invite them to choose from clothing and small toys. Mothers and fathers choose the perfect gift, have it wrapped, and enjoy holiday sweets to complete the experience. The event takes place December 19 at the Carver Center.

“We started this program with the children in mind,” said Enza Dattero, Co-President. “What we didn’t realize was how much fulfilling these wishes means to the whole family and reminds them that someone cares.”

To learn more about CHC or any of the partner organizations, visit childrenshopechest.com.