By Eileen Jevis
Staff writer
For more than 20 years, St. Lucy’s Church on the near westside of Syracuse has provided families in need with gifts and essential items at Christmas time. Each year, over 300 families, representing more than 2,000 individuals, are invited to the Christmas Giveaway. The families invited are those who utilize the CNY Food Bank and live within a 30-block radius of the parish. Each family is invited to shop for Christmas gifts at the giveaway based on the number of people in their household.
Nicolas Salibrici is a member of St. Lucy’s music ministry and serves on the parish council. He is a teacher in the Syracuse City School District and a member of the Building Men program. He and co-director Kay Scharoun took over the event in 2022. Scharoun and her husband have been actively involved with the program for over 10 years, acting as gift shoppers and helping wherever needed.
“There is a tremendous amount of people who volunteer each year — shopping throughout the year for gifts, clothing, and other needed items, setting up, and preparing for the event,” said Salibrici. “It’s a reflection of how strong the St. Lucy’s community is. It’s what Christmas is about, giving to others.”
The annual event took place this year on Dec. 3.
