Culturally, Christmas awakens the spirit of solidarity and many companies and families make donations to people in vulnerable situations. During the pandemic, solidarity actions grew and made a difference in the lives of Brazilians who suffer from the economic crisis, high prices and unemployment.
But why is solidarity greater at this time of year? Check out explanations and find out how to help families of children and young people this Christmas.
Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates life and hope. Due to cultural and religious influences, many people feel happier at this time of year. Thus, the “Christmas spirit” is contagious and awakens feelings such as empathy and solidarity.
In empathy, we put ourselves in the other’s shoes, without judgment or interest. That way, we understand someone’s pain and needs. Solidarity, on the other hand, is compassion and kindness to help other people.
This behavior has been repeated for centuries and, each year, various institutions, companies and people organize themselves to do good, regardless of belief or religion.
With the pandemic, the number of companies seeking social organizations to make donations increased and, during the Christmas period, partnerships tend to grow.
The partnership usually works like this: companies donate inputs and institutions distribute them. In addition to food baskets, Christmas donations are more comprehensive and include toys, books and events and tours.
In 2020, the Ramacrisna Institute received donations aimed at all ages:
For Christmas 2021, the number of donations dropped. “At this time of pandemic, the participation of companies was very strong. So we were able to help a lot of families. But now, perhaps because the pandemic has improved a little, companies have become more distant”, explains the vice president of the Ramacrisna Institute, Solange Bottaro.
With that, the actions will be a little smaller: the donation of birds will only be for some students in greater social vulnerability, for example. But it’s still time to help. “I think gifts and food are the most important things we receive at this time of year,” says Solange.
But solidarity is not restricted to the Christmas season. Throughout the year, we have partner companies to maintain our projects, distribute food and carry out other activities. To make a donation and make Christmas more supportive, contact us.
In addition to the distribution of donations, several activities are being carried out at the end of the year. Since November, the Institute has already held the inauguration of the Casa da Orquestra, which made a Christmas Sonata with the participation of Trio Amaranto.
For the children, a storytelling was carried out with the participation of a magician. In addition, Professor Luiza Antoniêta developed a series of activities in the craft workshop, such as: Table Christmas Tree, Christmas Star, Snowman, Christmas Wreath and others.
On the 14th, students and staff will participate in a special Christmas lunch. In all, there are more than 300 people, 110 employees and more than 200 children. “They have lunch together all year round, but Christmas is more special. It has an atmosphere of celebration, fraternization and a lot of joy. It’s a really cool lunch”, highlights Solange.
