Santa Arrives Early in Reading, PA

Secret Santa Hands Money to a Woman in Reading Bus Station, the Reading Eagle

Donning his version of a Santa's elf costume, a long-sleeved red shirt and red hat, an anonymous benefactor set a goal of giving a total $20,000 to needy residents of Reading, Pennsylvania Tuesday. Handing $100 bills stamped with "Secret Santa" in red, the unidentified businessman embodied the true spirit of Christmas.  Throughout his visit, the man wearing a red hat stamped with "Elf" was escorted by police.

Approximately 90,000 people inhabit the city of reading, which has suffered greatly since the economic slide began in 2008.  It is the most impoverished city with a population of 65,000 or more in America, so residents received "Secret Santa's" gifts with tears of joy and appreciation. A video produced by the Reading Eagle showed one man weeping inside a bus station.  He said that he had been praying for help just the night before, and "Secret Santa" arrived with the present.  The video followed Santa's helper but always showed him with his back to the camera.

When asked why he had chosen this specific act of kindness, the anonymous Santa replied, “Cities like Reading are experiencing tough economic times.  It’s time for us to step up, not step back.” Ham on Wry hopes this story convinces others with the means to share some of their bounty during the holiday season.  America has had too many examples of selfish greed, and I'm delighted to share some happy news about someone giving away money in this post.