Despite a crisp, drizzly day on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the Corey C. Griffin Foundation (CCGF) brought holiday cheer to Boston’s Cathedral of the Holy Cross. The festive spirit was undeniable for the annual Corey’s Kids Christmas celebration.
Buses lined the street as children arrived, chatting and laughing with friends. Over 40 enthusiastic CCGF volunteers, including Board and Emerging Leaders Council (ELC) members, greeted them with bright red Santa hats, high-fives, and warm holiday wishes. The excitement only grew as students from our community program partners — including Lawrence Catholic Academy, PAL (Police Activities League of Massachusetts), Ron Burton Training Village, and St. John Paul II Catholic Academy, and Trinity Catholic Academy — proudly cheered for their schools and programs.
Once inside the majestic cathedral, the children’s chatter hushed as they took their seats, ready for the celebration ahead.
Cathy Griffin kicked off the festivities with a heartfelt greeting to the students and their teachers, embracing the Christmas spirit. The mood became even more lively with a performance by the talented a cappella group, The Nor’Easters (from Northeastern University), including “Jingle Bell Rock”, which sparked singing and clapping from the students.
Reflecting on the season, Foundation President Chandra Clark welcomed the children and Rob Griffin followed with an expression of gratitude and reminder about the deeper meaning of Christmas, both sharing the importance of community, values at the heart of the holiday.
The afternoon’s special guest, New England Patriots coach and former player Matthew Slater, delivered an inspiring message about hope.
Slater spoke directly to the children, weaving the story of Christmas into a gentle message about faith and resilience. “Christmas is the celebration of God’s coming to us in human form,” he shared, emphasizing that God chose to appear to a family without resources. The cathedral grew quiet as Slater spoke, the children attentive, captivated by his warm and uplifting words.
The celebration culminated in a joyful moment of giving, as carefully chosen gifts were distributed to the students. More than 2,500 children received gifts at or after the event. And each gift was tailored to their age, including CCGF-customized black ISlides, sleek Flip 6 speakers, and fluffy Squishmallows.
Cathy and Rob Griffin, along with Matthew Slater and other volunteers, also personally handed out blessed rosary prayer bracelets with hugs and holiday wishes, ensuring that each child left with a sense of connection and love.
As the children stepped back into the chilly Boston afternoon, their laughter and smiles were the perfect ending to a magical day. The Corey C. Griffin Foundation once again exemplified its mission of bringing joy, hope, and opportunity to Boston-area youth, creating lasting memories and spreading the true spirit of Christmas.
To learn more about how you can help support and participate in our initiatives and events, please contact Katie Gassert, Director of Advancement and Special Events, [email protected].