'I will do whatever it takes': Long Island's Mrs. Claus grants wishes to children facing rough times

Long Island's Mrs. Claus started the charity in 2010 and delivered Christmas presents to 30 children. Now, her hope is to bring holiday cheer to 500 children.

News 12 Staff

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Dec 22, 2022, 1:30 PM

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Updated 634 days ago

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A Dix Hills woman has earned the nickname Mrs. Claus for granting wishes from children who are facing hard times.

Some of the letters are addressed to Santa and ask for help with necessities like food for families who don't have enough.

Jennifer Scully founded the charity "Help Mrs. Claus" as a way to assist kids who need help.

"Once that letter is in my hand, I will do whatever it takes to get that child what they need," Scully said.

Every year beginning in October, Scully gathers 2,000 volunteers to donate toys, clothing and food to her nonprofit.

The donations are distributed to children and families who may not otherwise be able to provide presents during the holiday season.

Scully said the pandemic and inflation have really impacted families and what they need.

She understands their hardships because she was once experiencing the same thing.

"I grew up very poor - We were very, very poor," Scully said. "We didn't have a telephone. We couldn't afford one until I got older."

Long Island's Mrs. Claus started the charity in 2010 and delivered Christmas presents to 30 children. Now, her hope is to bring holiday cheer to 500 children.

The first batch of packages left Scully's house on Thursday.

Scully says grocery store gift cards are especially helpful this holiday season.

Anyone interested in helping out can visit the charity's website here.