During the holiday season, the international school community participated in The Giving Tree. The Giving Tree is an organization that was formed four years ago to help the underprivileged children of Shanghai and nearby provinces. When the organization was first formed, only thirty children were part of the gift program. This year, with the help of the international community, 2,700 children received gifts of new clothing, shoes and toys.On Tuesday, Matthew's school and the children from the Yew Cheung International School attended the final distribution ceremony. We arrived at the Dong Jiao State Guest House to meet the children. We didn't expect a big elaborate affair. We were very surprised to find an agenda that included an opening speech by the director of the Giving Tree, the presentation of Recognition Certificates for the two international schools and song and dance performances by children from the recipient schools.
After all the formalities, it was time for the children to present their gifts. It was quite nice to watch the children line up to meet their Giving Tree donor. The gifts of clothing, shoes and toys will be used for the upcoming Chinese New Year when a new outfit and shoes are often purchased to usher in the New Year.
Often times, it saddens me to see the level of wealth and poverty in Shanghai. During my walking excursions, I see the two extremes. The extremely wealthy who are driving their BMW's, Porsches, Mercedes Benz and Ferrari's and the extremely poor who are riding their bicycle with a cart picking up things to turn into the recycling area, or sometimes, children begging on the streets for food or money.
It was nice to know that there are many in the international community who contribute to The Giving Tree. Tony and I have always contributed to charitable organizations. We have always supported the local food shelter, the battered woman's home and various children's programs. Over the years, we have taught Matthew the same principles. We felt it was important to continue this tradition while we're in Shanghai. Matthew realizes and understands that not all children are as fortunate as he is. Many times when he sees someone begging on the streets or on the train, he will give money from his pocket. This is something that we are really proud of.
Matthew and I will never forget the look of the little boy's face who received his bag. We hope that many will continue to give to this worthwhile organization to help the number of children in need.
