On December 10, 2023, the spirit of giving illuminated the annual Sun Santa Family Christmas Party, held at the Dom Polski Club in Lowell. The event honored the late Edward P. Kuczek, a long-time supporter of The Sun Santa Fund, and his wife, Mary Kuczek, who passed away 16 years ago. Their son, John Kuczek, shared memories of his father’s humble beginnings and commitment to helping others, stating, “If it wasn’t for the Salvation Army, they probably wouldn’t have Christmas dinners.”
Edward Kuczek, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam and died in April at the age of 76, dedicated his life to giving back to those less fortunate. This year’s celebration, now in its 17th iteration, was hosted by the Polish-American Veterans of Lowell and served as a testament to the impact of community support.
Celebration of Community Spirit
The atmosphere at the Dom Polski Club was filled with holiday cheer as attendees enjoyed pizza, festive treats, and lively Christmas music. Leading the event was Tricia Indelicato, the PAV Community Chairperson, who emphasized the importance of giving back, especially during these challenging times. “It’s important for me to give back, and now that I see the need with the amount of people who are struggling, it makes it more important,” she stated.
The Sun Santa Family Christmas Party has raised thousands of dollars for The Sun Santa Fund, which supports families in 23 communities. Since its inception in 1988, the fund has ensured that struggling families can celebrate the holidays with meals and gifts. Dave Demaris and Peter Goyette, both former Sun truck drivers, initiated the event as a way to contribute back to the community, with Demaris noting, “All the money was going back to the children of the community.”
During the gathering, the arrival of Santa Claus delighted both children and adults, creating memorable moments as guests took photos and shared their holiday wishes. Kevin Coughlin, president of Lowell Sun Charities, remarked on the heartwarming nature of the event, saying, “It’s a wonderful sense of community.” He noted that in 2024, the Sun Santa Fund served 1,144 families, providing 2,528 children with toys, alongside $46,760 in food vouchers and $75,840 in toy vouchers.
Ongoing Support for Local Families
The spirit of giving continues with upcoming events aimed at further supporting the Sun Santa Fund. On December 16, from 10:00 to 12:00, state Rep. Jim Arciero will host a drive-in and drop-off event at the Littleton Police Department, encouraging attendees to bring new, unwrapped toys or checks made out to The Sun Santa Fund. Later that day, from noon to 16:00, Lowell Mayor Dan Rourke will organize “Pints for a Purpose” at The Old Court, aiming to raise $10,000 to assist 100 families in Greater Lowell. City Manager Tom Golden will lead a live auction during the event, with donations accepted in cash or checks.
The collaboration and commitment demonstrated at the Sun Santa Family Christmas Party underscore the community’s resilience and dedication to supporting those in need. Through ongoing efforts and events like these, the legacy of giving continues to thrive.
