It has already become a tradition that Baráthegyi Vakvezető Kutya Iskola gives Christmas presents to visually impaired and underprivileged children. The givers, known as “angels,” have been bringing more and more presents to the Christmas tree each year. In the first year, there were 50 children; last year, 86; and this year, 100 children were delighted. Most of them are visually impaired. This year’s event marked the fourth such occasion.
The event, held on December 19, 2024, was opened by Ádám Balogh, a psychologist at Baráthegyi Vakvezető Kutya Iskola and event organizer.
“Most of the children are visually impaired, but there are also children who are underprivileged and currently have no way to receive a Christmas present. These children were selected by rehabilitation specialists and professionals who assist families. This initiative began at the start of December, and within an hour, each child had their own ‘Angel,'” said Ádám Balogh, who was assisted by his guide dog, Oktáv, during the gift-giving.
The atmosphere was joyful and lively. The children eagerly opened their presents, and everyone was happy to receive what they had wished for. Afterward, they spent time with our guide dogs, enjoying petting and playful activities. Our dogs also delighted everyone by performing tricks.
What was placed under the children’s shared Christmas tree this year?
Kevin, a primary school student, received soccer shoes, a ball, a sweater, and trousers. When we asked him what else he was hoping for this Christmas, the little boy looked at us seriously and replied that he wanted love from his mom and dad.
Lili is already a grown-up girl; she asked for an electric vegetable chopper because she wants to become more independent and help her parents as much as possible. She shared that her vision is constantly deteriorating, and she can currently still see shapes. She takes her studies seriously and dreams of going to university.
The youngest child to receive a gift was one month old, while the oldest was seventeen. As a result, there were presents like diapers, baby rollers, and more under the Christmas tree. Most of the gifts were toys, winter clothing, and practical items for personal use. This year, popular gifts included winter boots, sweat suits, school and sports tools, and cosmetics. There were also some unique requests made to the “angels,” who fulfilled them. For example, one child asked for a “star-gazer with a stand,” while another requested a cassette and vinyl records of old music.
The children who received gifts live in Budapest, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Baranya, and Heves counties. Unfortunately, not all of them could attend due to travel issues, illness, or other obstacles, but of course, we made sure their gifts were delivered to them.
Our foundation has been helping visually impaired people through guide dog training for 18 years.