La Operación Santa en CICS Basil transformó la temporada de donaciones en una temporada de impacto, lo que le valió unconmovedorreportaje en ABC7 Chicago.
A total of 120 kindergarten and first-grade students wrote heartfelt letters to Santa, sharing their Christmas wishes—and he delivered. Among the grateful participants, Sade Santiago, a CICS Basil educator and parent, reflected on the impact of the event on their community and her family.
"I literally cried. I cried because it's not about the money or how much you give; it's about the support and love that's shown. We live in a low-income neighborhood, and many of our kids don't receive Christmas gifts or experience the joy that comes with them. For these children, this is Santa coming to town," Santiago shared.
All the gifts were donated to the students, and as they unwrapped their presents, Principal Johnstone brought an infectious energy to the celebration.
“I think it’s honestly everything for them. I’m just overwhelmed with joy and elation,” Johnstone said.
One student, Adore Watson, wished for a teddy bear—and that's exactly what she received. When asked about her plans for the gift, she happily replied, “To play with it all day,” during her winter break.
Operation Santa highlights the power of giving back and the importance of community support in bringing joy to families in need. CICS Basil thanks ABC7 Chicago’s, Christian Piekos, for showcasing this impactful event. You can support CICS by donating or partnering with us to learn more and make a difference.
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CICS proudly partners with Meridian Charter Schools, Distinctive Schools, and ReGeneration Schools to operate 13 tuition-free public charter schools across Chicago. To learn more, visit www.ChicagoIntl.org.
