In Orlando, Florida, while children globally are penning letters to Santa Claus with lists of toys they hope to find under their Christmas trees, a unique group of kids in Central Florida are writing with different aspirations in mind.

The children at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida are putting forth heartfelt wishes such as, “Dear Santa, I want to be around people who believe in me,” and “Dear Santa, I want a safe place to play after school.” These letters express their desire for safety and a hopeful future, rather than material gifts.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida, aims to highlight the organization’s needs and raise funds to support its mission.

“What stands out is that these kids aren’t asking for toys,” explained Jamie Merrill, President and CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida. “They’re seeking mentors who believe in them, caring adults, and a space where they can explore career paths, develop skills, and achieve academic success. They are focused on long-term goals rather than temporary happiness that a toy might bring.”

The Boys and Girls Clubs are dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where children can learn and thrive safely. Merrill notes that approximately 13,000 children across Central Florida are involved in the clubs each year. These kids engage in activities that range from reading and math tutoring to music, art, and robotics.

Merrill says it costs the club about $2,500 each year to serve just one child, but they only charge about $40 a year for an annual membership fee.

“Over 50% of the kids that we serve on a daily basis are teenagers. They’re choosing to come to us every single day, which is why they’re asking for this. They’re asking for more career exploration. They’re asking for more opportunities,” said Merrill. “Literacy, as we continue to see rates declining (nationwide), we are having 97% of our children promoted to the next grade level and because they are on track, 100% of our kids are graduating high school every single year.”

To learn more about the Boys and Girls Clubs’ Dear Santa letters and how you can help out, head to giving.bgccf.org/page/givegreat2025.