A real holiday atmosphere reigned in the warm, intimate surroundings of the Association of Pensioners and Elderly Persons of Kaštel Sućurac this Friday. Members of the association hosted six residents of the Miljenko and Dobrila Children's Home - Podstrana apartment, to present them with gifts and bring smiles to the entire room ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The excitement was palpable upon arrival. The children brought a handmade card wishing the association members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2026 – a gesture that particularly touched the association's president, Milojka Vicek.
– I want to thank the children for the greetings. They wished us a Happy New Year and a Merry Christmas. I also wish them a Merry Christmas, and I also wish them a lot of happiness, lots of new friendships, lots of laughter and happiness in the new year, 2026. Thank you! And now we will give them presents. – said President Vicek.
Six residents of the home received bags filled with various gifts, and their sincere smiles showed how much such moments mean to them. In addition to the little things that made each child happy, gift certificates for shopping at City Center were also presented. In addition, large bags with hygiene supplies and basic food products were prepared - help that will come in very handy in the coming weeks.
The atmosphere was touching, filled with emotion and gratitude. The children were visibly moved by the attention they received. In their eyes, you could read what is difficult to describe in words – the feeling that they are seen, loved and important. It is in moments like these that it becomes clear how little it actually takes to brighten someone's day, especially the holidays. Sometimes, just a gesture of kindness, a small sign of attention or a warm word is enough to bring back hope and a smile to someone.
President Vicek reminded that this humanitarian initiative has been part of the association's tradition since its founding.
– We give them away every year. The idea came right after the association was founded because we always organized various events for ourselves. Then we decided to do something for others. So we decided to help the children and we do it again every year. This year and last year we gave them gift certificates because there were significant donations of money and we couldn't spend it all on necessities. That's why we decided to use gift certificates. As for donations, some bring needed items, some money. The money goes into certificates, and the necessities are packaged for the children – she explained.
That their help was greatly appreciated is also evidenced by the letter of appreciation presented to the president of the association by Aunt Ankica, the educator who takes care of the children and brought them to the gathering. She thanked them for their long-standing support, emphasizing how much such gatherings mean to the children, but also to all those who care for them.
The gathering in Kaštel Sućurac once again showed that, despite life's challenges, the warmth of community and genuine human kindness always find their way. And the holidays – when lived in this way – can truly be more magical than ever.
Photo: Andrej Valentić
