THOUSANDS OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTS FOR ORPHANS ARRIVE AT THE ROYAL PALACE FROM LIFELINE CHICAGO

TRH Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia are deeply grateful that their long-standing tradition of bringing holiday joy to children in need since 2001 continues again this holiday season. Thousands of Christmas presents for orphans in Serbia and the Republic of Srpska, provided by donations to Lifeline Humanitarian Organization of Chicago, whose Patron for over 30 years is HRH Crown Princess Katherine, arrived at the Royal Compound in Belgrade last night.

Their Royal Highnesses extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the generous donors, benefactors, and volunteers of Lifeline Chicago, as well as to the Organization’s Board Members, whose dedication in assisting those in need has once again made it possible for vulnerable children to experience the warmth, love, and hope of the Christmas holiday season. Thousands of presents for the upcoming holiday — including clothing, shoes, toys, hygiene kits, and educational and school supplies — have arrived at the Royal Compound and are being readied for the planned festive receptions for the children to take place at The White Palace.

With the support of Lifeline Chicago’s donors and benefactors, The Crown Princess Katherine Foundation will once again host Christmas receptions at The White Palace, bringing joy and celebration to more than one thousand orphans, children with disabilities, and socially vulnerable children. This cherished tradition was established by TRH Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine immediately upon their return to Serbia in 2001.

“There is nothing more precious than seeing a smile on a child’s face when they receive a gift made just for them, and knowing that they have not been forgotten. When someone realizes that their effort brought that smile, it is the greatest reward. That feeling — knowing you have made a difference — is the true meaning of the Joy of Giving. Our children must always feel loved. We have no right to overlook them or miss the opportunity to offer them this special joy.

Thanks to the constant support of our donors and the dedicated people of Lifeline Chicago, who have stood by our children for so many years, my husband and I are delighted that we will once again bring happiness to more than 1,000 children. We are truly grateful to everyone who helps us bring the Christmas spirit to these young ones and enrich their childhood. Our children must always feel loved. We must never forget them or miss the chance to bring them this precious gift of love,” said HRH Crown Princess Katherine.

Lifeline Humanitarian Organization of Chicago receives monetary donations from supporters to utilize for the purchase of Christmas gifts for children, while many other supporters purchase the gifts themselves and donate to Lifeline Chicago, all to be distributed to the over one thousand children at the annual Christmas receptions at The White Palace. Lifeline Chicago also ensures that Christmas packages which are to be delivered directly to the institutions caring for orphans are prepared for delivery and are received in time for the Christmas holiday. It is important to highlight the extraordinary care, effort, and love that the donors, benefactors, volunteers, and Board Members place into each individual gift bag, which is filled with numerous gifts. Every gift bag is thoughtfully personalized according to the child’s age, gender, and clothing and shoe size. When a child receives a personalized holiday package with their name on it, they feel the joy of knowing that someone from far away holds them in their heart.

Ms. Donna M. Sekulich, Esq, the President of Lifeline Humanitarian Organization of Chicago stated: “Once again, Lifeline Chicago is elated to bring Christmas joy to thousands of vulnerable children. None of this would be possible without our dedicated supporters and volunteers who so generously share our passion.

No one can deny the miracle of a child’s smile, the warmth of their laughter, or the embrace of their hug upon receiving their Božić (Serbian for Christmas) gifts. These moments remind us of the true meaning of the season. May the spirit of Christmas be bestowed upon you and yours, filling your days with blessings and joy.“