One thousand children in need are receiving gifts this holiday season through the Wish List program run by Paterson-based nonprofit CUMAC.

Every December the program matches area youth with donors willing to make their holiday wishes come true. With assistance from donors 1,000 kids living in shelters, poverty, or suffering through illness are receiving Christmas presents.

“We understand how devastating it can be for a child to see others receive gifts during the holidays while they go without,” Yadira Guillen, case manager at Coalition on AIDS in Passaic County (CAPCO), said. “With the help of CUMAC and their holiday donations, our clients are able to see the eyes of their children and grandchildren light up and thus spread the magic of the holiday season.”

Guillen’s organization is among 16 different partners distributing presents to children throughout Passaic County.

Presents include a variety of items like bicycles, teddy bears, and other toys. Kids all ages, from newborns to high school students, are served through the programs. With their gifts, many children also received clothing, shoes, and other essentials to get them through the winter.

The gifts have been delivered to the children ahead of Christmas.

Photo: Jennifer Miller, CUMAC’s Wish List Coordinator (on the left), Kathleen Altobello, CUMAC volunteer (on right).