Toys from the Windy City

Children line up for toys Dec. 22 at St. Monica Parish, Atlantic City. The Chicago Fraternal Order of Police collected and delivered more than 100 toys for children affected by Hurricane Sandy. On the same day they were distributed, the children of the parish presented a show, “A Christmas to Believe In.” Right, Marie Pepe portrays Mary.

Photos by Alan M. Dumoff, more photos ccdphotolibrary.smugmug.com

Christmas came a few days early for children of St. Monica’s Parish in Atlantic City who were affected by Superstorm Sandy.

The Chicago Fraternal Order of Police collected and delivered more than 100 toys for the children.

The organization collected donations and coordinated delivery to Long Beach Island and St. Monica.

During a program at St. Monica Dec. 22, Santa Claus and his elves surprised the parish children with gifts, ensuring them a happy holiday. The children of the parish also put on a Christmas play.

“God works in mysterious ways; it was a great blessing,” said Father Yvans Jazon, administrator of St. Monica Parish. “It is great to bring joy to the children, with the help of the FOP.”