Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.
Much ado has been stirred up with the presence of a particular Santa letter that was included in the submission section of the Dec. 24 edition of the Jefferson County Journal. The letter submitted was written by a young boy named “Willie,” and in stark contrast to the requests of other children's letters, which asked Santa for a new video game or various toys, little Willie asked Santa for something far more simple.
“I live with my grand mom, and we don't have much food for Christmas,” Willie wrote, “Santa all I wish for is some food and car for my grand mom.” Willie continued, explaining that his grandmother was in a wheelchair and had trouble getting to her doctor's appointments and was unable to pay for transportation.
After the publication of this letter, many members of the community expressed concern on a community social media board called Monticello Mamas. Dozens of empathetic parties commented and shared, wanting to figure out the best way to help Willie and his his family, each update bringing more information. A fundraiser was created in the hopes of bringing this family the help they so desperately needed.
In a last minute update Tuesday morning, a member of the family contacted one of the organizers of a fundraiser and revealed some rather complicated truths. The truth, she stated, was that there was no Willie, and the Letter to Santa was believed to be written instead by her uncle. The family is deeply concerned and has spoken out and stated that his misguided plea for help was not rooted in fact. Further discussion with the family did reveal, in spite of the circumstances bringing it to light, a need in the home for some groceries and personal items, that would go to benefit the grandmother as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren that often come to stay for visits. The home also requires repairs for the wheelchair ramp in the front of the home, as well as fresh caulking on leaking windows and maintenance to the roof, which has some damage.
The family is very concerned, and wishes to prevent any continuation of any dishonest or misguided information and does in no way condone the actions of the uncle responsible for the letter. The family went on to say that the groceries and supplies that have been so far delivered are greatly appreciated, and the outpouring of support from the community is heart-warming, but for the blessing to come from a misleading situation does not in any way reflect the wishes or desires of the family.
We cannot always control the things our family members do. We cannot prevent them from doing misguided things, and we don't always understand their motives. This family is in no way responsible for the misinformation that was given, and has done absolutely everything in their power to clear the air and provide clarity. Jefferson County has come together in the aid of a little boy named Willie, unknowing that there was more to this story than meets the eye. All donations that were given have gone directly towards real, affirmed needs for the household, by means of groceries, personal hygiene items and necessary repairs.
For any questions on ways you can help, please contact Casey Hicks who is in direct contact with the family, by calling (850) 544-2597.