Letters to Santa Claus: Children's wishes filled with emotion
Children around the world have had the opportunity to write to Santa Claus and receive personalized replies starting with 2001. In the last six years, more of those who send letters have been receiving gifts or visits from Santa's elves through a project called "Santa Claus Academy." This initiative collects letters from children at the Moldovan Post Office and delivers them to the "Clipa Siderală" organization, where the magic unfolds.
Currently, over 40 volunteers are working in Santa Claus' caravan. The first letter Santa received this year was particularly emotional.
"The first letter I received this year was from Roxana, 15. Her father passed away five years ago, and her aunt two years ago. Her mother and siblings struggle to find wood to heat their house. This year, she asked for wood and a computer so she can learn. This letter has already received a personalized response from Santa Claus' helpers, and she has a Santa Claus who will provide her with these gifts, making her life a bit easier," shared volunteer Ina Agachi.
For children who write letters, anyone can become Santa Claus. Those interested can visit the headquarters, where letters are carefully organized on shelves and divided by districts.
“It is easier to sort our letters by district because if someone wants to be Santa Claus' helper and buy gifts for one or more children, they can come to our headquarters and choose a specific letter from the shelf corresponding to that district,” explained project coordinator Tatiana Roșca.
“We have a shelf for letters that have already been read and sorted by districts. Anyone can become Santa Claus. That is why those who want to be part of the team come to Santa's workshop to work together and fulfill the children's wishes,” added Valeria Jidraș, another project coordinator.
Santa's letters come from exotic destinations, including China and Thailand, and they also receive responses.
"Every year, Santa's Academy receives letters from abroad, not just from the Republic of Moldova. For instance, we have letters from Thailand and Germany. Even local residents who might hear about our initiative write to us. These individuals are not Moldovan children from the diaspora, but foreigners. Santa sends responses to these children as well," said volunteer Nicoleta Lupanciuc.
With over 15,000 letters received annually for 23 consecutive years, the "Letter from Santa Claus" campaign continues to bring joy to children's lives, surprising them with special visits and gifts and thereby reinforcing the magic of the winter holidays.
