'UC Secret Santa' initative open until 12 December
The University of Coimbra has teamed up with Acreditar, Calioásis and Casa do Pessoal to support children with cancer and other disabling illnesses.
The traditional Secret Santa has been reimagined in a more compassionate and supportive way at the University of Coimbra (UC).
This initiative, organised by the UC Student Hub, aims to bring moments of joy to children and families coping with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
This Christmas, the University of Coimbra is partnering with the Acreditar and Calioásis associations, as well as the UC Casa do Pessoal, with the possibility of extending support to other organisations that help children and young people. These institutions are then asked to "find out what the children need or want for Christmas", explains Ana Rita Querido, coordinator of the Student Hub. In the true spirit of Secret Santa, "you give and you receive", with the children sending a postcard, drawing, or thank-you note in return.
Registration is open online until 12 December. Ana Rita Querido points out that "each person can choose one or more children, with a reference value of 20 euros". Registrants will then be informed of the child's age. The gift "can be delivered at the Student Hub or during the Christmas lunch organised by the UC Casa do Pessoal", she adds.
UC Secret Santa was launched in 2022. Last year, the campaign helped make Christmas a little more special for around 40 children.