How one service club is bringing a COVID Christmas

A third-grade student receives a Christmas gift from the Rotary Club of Downey in 2019. (Photo by Lorine Parks)

“Our goal,” said Barbara Lamberth, Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Downey, “is to put a smile on each and every one of the 66 children. We are famous for our Christmas lunch with third graders who otherwise wouldn't have any Christmas.

 “This year,” said Barbara, “we have had reduced dues and fundraising is lean,” said Barbara,  “so we will have to dip into our treasury’s general fund.  We cannot be together, but the kids will not be forgotten.”

 Two girls and two boys from each of the 11 elementary schools in Downey are usually picked  by the teachers as those that would benefit the most from attending the Children's Holiday Luncheon with Rotarians at Rio Hondo Events Center.

“These are children who need extra care.  Some have lost a loved one,” said Barbara. “It breaks our hearts when a child says "I won’t open this because I am going to give it to my sister. It might be the only present she gets.”

 “We collaborate with the DUSD to put it on," said Barbara, “and the members love the event  as much as the kids do. Rotarians sit with the kids while they enjoy a special "Kids" meal and  talk non-stop. Then we sing songs while we wait for Santa.  They are so excited to be out of the classroom!”

“This year,” said Barbara, “we are still doing it, but differently.”   Sixty-six presents have been wrapped  by Barbara and club secretary Patricia Megallon, a happy chore usually done by the whole club. 

 “Unfortunately,” said Barbara, “due to privacy restrictions and COVID, we cannot deliver the gifts to the kids directly. But with the help of our members Dr. John Garcia, Supervisor of the DUSD, and Roger Brossmer, Assistant Supervisor of Educational Services, teachers and administrators will make sure that the kids get their gifts.”