Members of CSI Softball pose for a photo with Santa Claus at Operation: Santa-Tation
The holiday season brings out the best in many people, and it holds true for most College of Staten Island players and coaches as well. This weekend, the CSI women’s softball did their part, participating in the annual Operation: Santa-Tation event at Chelsea Playground in Staten Island. There, the team took part in a host of activities designed to put smiles on many victims of Hurricane Sandy, many of whom could not host their own Christmas holiday after having lost their home and most of their belongings.
Led by Head Coach Dr. Stella Porto, the group of 19 individuals arrived at Chelsea Playground, located on Chelsea Road on Staten Island to help lead in the cheer. The event was hosted by members of the New York City Sanitation Department, who welcomed in families affected by the recent storm that decimated the Staten Island area. Once inside, children and adults alike took part in the festivities which included everything from serving food to leading game activities and distributing presents. Many of the team members dressed as Santa’s elves of reindeer, keeping the spirit of the holiday very much intact.
Alongside the event itself, those attending the event from the outside community helped in raising donations, which will go directly to support those families in need. For Porto, the event served to not only bridge the gap between her squad and the Staten Island community, but also lend insight to those who are less fortunate during the holiday. The efforts of the entire group were featured on NY1 News yesterday as well.
“Hurricane Sandy had such a devastating effect on our community and our team really wanted to do its part to help,” Porto said. “This event was a great was to give back to that community in a very positive way. Our girls really made the College proud.”
