As we continue People for People’s winter tour—our mission to ensure 1,600 kids across the Netherlands have the warm winter clothing they need—we held a very special Sinterklaas edition of our Rolling Aid Event for 283 children in Dronten.
Along with winter clothing, we also had gifts and Sinterklaas greeting the kids, taking selfies with families and even playing a round of badminton.
Volunteers transformed in the role of Pietjes for the day and jumped into action making kids laugh, handing out presents and giving piggyback rides.
The COA staff, who work tirelessly to support these families, were amazed by the event’s turnout with most of the residents coming to join in the activities together including painting and drawing for the little ones and sports and board games for the older kids.
What this event really brought home to each and every one of us is that warmth is about more than just a winter jacket.
With tears in her eyes, one mother shared the festivities via video call with her 5-year-old son back in Syria, showing the little boy what will be waiting for him when they’re reunited. Bara, a volunteer who joined for the first time, said it was the best day she’s had since arriving here from Syria nine months ago.
Beyond basic needs like the gloves that keep small hands and fingers warm as they bike to school or the jacket that feels like a warm hug as they play outside while the snow falls around them, warmth also comes from the sense of community, belonging, and welcome we can create as people strive to build not just a safe place to live, but a new home here in the Netherlands.
This heartwarming day would not have been possible without the support of Sintvoorieder1, whose generosity ensured that every child received a gift that made them feel special and seen.
