Rafael Prieto and his wife Ruth bring a little bit of Christmas magic to over 400 children in the village of Mesitas, Columbia each year. As self-appointed Santa’s elves of sorts, they’ve made it their mission to prepare a special evening just for the children.
It’s a project begun nearly two decades ago, developed from an observation Mrs. Prieto made while visiting Mesitas during Christmastime. Sitting in her cousin’s soda parlor, Mrs. Prieto “noticed nothing was being done for the children” on Christmas Eve. There were community celebrations featuring fireworks and music underway, but nothing specifically for Mesitas’ youngest residents.
“Here (in the US), Christmas is for the children,” Mrs. Prieto commented. She asked her cousin if she thought local businesses would make small contributions throughout the year, so that the Prietos could purchase toys on their behalf for the children. When that plan didn’t come to fruition, Mrs. Prieto declared, “I’m going to do it myself.” And she did.
You may not know their name, but if you have visited the area’s farmers markets over the summer, you are sure to recognize the smile of vegetable vender Rafael Prietos. Vegetables, however, are not the only thing on Rafael’s and his wife Ruth’s minds. Throughout the year, beginning nearly as soon as Christmas ends, the Prietos purchase toys, clothing, and shoes for the children in Mesitas, Columbia. While they receive some donated items, they buy the majority themselves. Their 2 grown children and their families assist as well. “It’s a project we do as a family,” said Mrs. Prieto. “We want to bring the Christmas spirit to the children.”
When the Prietos first started what’s now a firmly established tradition, they gave gifts to 50 children on Christmas Eve. Each year the number has increased, and now 400 children look forward to visiting the Prietos on December 24. “We have to be organized,” said Mrs. Prieto. “I ask God for a lot of patience, and I have a lot of helpers,” she added.
The logistics of transporting the toys, clothing, and shoes requires much planning and many hands. Mrs. Prieto just returned from Columbia at the beginning of November and they’ll make their final trip for this year this month. Most of the toys they bring to the children are stuffed animals, though they also bring small dolls and baby rattles. In accordance with airline regulations, each bag can weigh only 50 pounds. They brought 3 bags on their autumn trip, and will have 5 this time. In addition to the toys, they’ll bring 800 candy canes, bags, and diapers. “We make small bags for expectant moms; give them a little diaper bag with diapers, a onesie, and a rattle,” explained Mrs. Prieto. Relatives in Mesitas help unpack and organize the gifts.
Read more about Santa’s trip to South America in the December 2008 issue of The Review.
