Overview:
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Civic Action Team (CAT) 84-10 partnered with Spirit of America to spread holiday cheer across Palau. Visiting schools in Angaur, Ngarchelong, Aimeliik, Ngaraard, Airai, and Koror, the team delivered more than 500 gifts—including backpacks, LEGO sets, art supplies, and sports gear—bringing smiles and unforgettable holiday memories to elementary students nationwide.
By: Summer Kennard
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Civic Action Team (CAT) 84-10 partnered with the nonprofit organization Spirit of America to bring holiday cheer to elementary school students across Palau, delivering more than 500 Christmas presents to children in multiple communities.
The outreach effort reached schools in Angaur, Ngarchelong, Aimeliik, Ngaraard, Airai, and Koror, ensuring students across the nation were included in the seasonal celebration. The initiative aimed to spread joy, strengthen community ties, and create lasting memories for children during the holiday season.
The presents distributed included practical and recreational items such as backpacks, art supplies, soccer balls, baseball mitts, baseball bats, LEGO sets, bracelet-making kits, and candy canes. The variety of gifts was carefully chosen to support creativity, play, and learning, while also reflecting the interests of students at different grade levels.
Sergeant Debora Marquez of Civic Action Team 84-10 coordinated all outreach efforts. She oversaw the selection of the gifts and worked closely with local school officials and community leaders to coordinate visits from Santa Claus, who personally handed out presents to the students at each location.
“It was truly a rewarding experience to put together gifts for the kids and thoughtfully choose items that our team believed they would enjoy,” said Sgt. Marquez. “Bringing joy to the kids and seeing their smiling faces made all of the hard work worthwhile.”
Santa’s visits were a highlight for many students, creating moments of excitement and laughter throughout the schools visited. Captain Jon Furlong, Officer in Charge of Civic Action Team 84-10, praised the students for their behavior and enthusiasm during the events.
“Santa certainly had his hands full,” Capt. Furlong said. “I know he had a great time speaking with all of the kids and was very impressed by how respectful and kind-hearted they were. They will definitely be on the ‘nice list’ for next year.”
School leaders also expressed gratitude for the initiative. Aimeliik Elementary School Principal Ms. Sansel described the visit as especially meaningful for her students.
“It had been quite some time since Santa last visited our school, so the Civic Action Team’s visit gave us, especially the students, a wonderful and memorable experience,” she said. “We truly appreciate it.”