Over-the-top generosity

There may be an economic crisis, but there is certainly no compassion crisis — not in Central Virginia.
Despite the financial pressures bearing down on almost everyone these days, area residents gave generously, as always, to the Santa Fund — pushing the charity over its 2008 fundraising goal.
As of this writing, the total stands at $106,272. The goal was $100,000.
One could say that it was an anonymous of $7,000 made just late last week that pushed the goal over the top. Indeed, the donor may well have chosen that amount specifically to shatter the goal.

We may never know, but to that donor we say “thank you.”
To all the other donors, we also say “thank you.”

Every gift is important; every gift gives back to the community; and money cannot measure the compassion and generosity that lie behind each donation.
Indeed, some of the most poignant gifts are the $5, or $15, or $25 given in memory of a beloved family member or in honor of an outstanding citizen.
There have been hundreds of these small, sometimes sacrificial gifts over the last few weeks.
The triumph of compassion is of course all the more important this year because of the economic crisis, which will push some area families into real distress.
The Santa Fund will help ease some of that distress for schoolchildren in Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Nelson and Orange. The fund provides money for necessities such as clothing and medicine. The aid is distributed quietly and with dignity through school officials.

More than 100 years ago, the fund was established by The Daily Progress. It is now co-sponsored with WINA Radio and administered by the United Way-Thomas Jefferson Area.
The collection period remains open for a few more days, while the distribution period will continue throughout this school year and into the next.
Envelopes are available at the newspaper and radio stations and at many area banks. Donations should be mailed to the Santa Fund at 806 E. High St., Charlottesville, VA 22902.

Again, thank you to all who have given to this season’s Santa Fund — and all who will yet give.
Your compassion during difficult times is remarkable.