Christmas is an especially sad and discouraging time. Most of these children will not have a gift under the tree. In fact, most will not have a Christmas tree.

As school is out on vacation during Christmas, the kids will not get their school lunch, placing additional stress on households that already lack the funds for even basic resources.

Each year, we do our best to raise at least $3,000 to help some of our Lakota friends have a happier holiday season. We spend about half of the amount collected to purchase propane and to pay the electric bills for 10 needy families .

The rest is spent making a glorious Christmas for several families. The children receive new shoes, coats, clothing, socks, shoes and several toys--- all wrapped (from Santa). The head of the selected households receive a credit at the local grocery store for a week's worth of food.

We also provide each selected household with a small artificial Christmas tree, a string of lights, a few ornaments, and a personalized stocking for each child.

We are hoping that through the power of the internet, we can find 300 people willing to give just $10 for this effort. These families will appreciate your generosity and compassion more than words can say.

We hope that you can open your heart and contribute towards this effort.  Please make checks payable to AHOPA and mail to:

Ahopa, Inc

145 Rangeley St

West Haven, CT

06516