Yesterday several hardworking , Hispanic women gathered in the office of Susan Vaughn who directs our annual “Christmas Store” project. Each woman has been working since early October as a member of our Community Service Corps. We pay Corps member $10. an hour in “Christmas Store” buying power (i.e. “Christmas Bucks“) for the work they perform in schools, nursing homes, churches, businesses and other service venues in the neighborhood.

    As these eager moms calculated their earnings, they shared a special story of holiday need.

    “There is a young boy in our neighborhood whose mother had to return to Mexico. She left him here with friends,” they explained. “Because of the family’s situation, he will have no Christmas really,” they continued. “He really wants a bike. Do you think you could give him a bike from the Christmas Store?”

    Thinking for a moment, Susan chose her words carefully.

    “No. We cannot give him a bike. But, if you feel he should have this special gift, each of you could pool some of your earnings and buy the bike for him,” Susan explained, as one of the women translated for the others.

    As the idea became clear, the women began to nod eagerly. “Si, si, si!” they almost shouted. “We can do this! We want to do this!”

    It was a magic moment in the heart of the city. Freed from the constraints and the powerlessness of charity, these special women stepped up to the challenge facing one little boy. They took it on and our community grew stronger. They eagerly accepted part of the responsibility for the child’s life and future. Their work mattered when they performed it. Their work mattered now to a child caught in a situation beyond his control.

    Poor women? Well, yes. They manage their households on an annual income at or below the official national poverty line. Powerless women? Women without options? No! Each woman, when placed in a position of opportunity, responded with creativity, effectiveness and dependability to work hard for their families, themselves and their community.

    With the “Christmas Store” open, these women will make a very special purchase and joy will fill the moment. And, something tells me each will enjoy a very Merry Christmas.