Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, Holland America Line, and Port Everglades team up for holiday party for kids in distress

On Saturday, the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), Holland America Line, and Broward County's Port Everglades came together to spread holiday cheer for about 40 children from the nonprofit Kids in Distress (KID). The Holiday Gift Project took place onboard Holland America's Nieuw Statendam at Port Everglades.

“We are beyond grateful for the efforts of so many that have made it possible to relaunch the Holiday Gift Project, which has brought presents and cheer to tens of thousands of underprivileged children over its 22 previous years and will benefit 23 destinations this year,” said Michele M. Paige, FCCA CEO. “This would not be possible without our partnership with Diamonds International, which helped restart the Foundation itself, and Port Everglades, which came in as a partner sponsor for the FCCA Foundation Fundraising Dinner. They have shown the same commitment to our mission of building a foundation for children to support them in the present and future.”

Children ages 3 to 16 were treated to a three-course lunch, arts-and-crafts, and a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. The children also received gifts donated by the port and FCCA, along with stuffed animals of Holland America Line's mascot, Lewie the Lion. The cruise line wrapped the event by presenting a $5,000 donation to Kids in Distress.

“We are pleased to recognize the positive impact of organizations on the communities we visit,” said Henk Draper, captain of the Holland America Line ship Nieuw Statendam. “We thank Kids in Distress for their incredible work in helping children in need in greater Fort Lauderdale and it was our pleasure to welcome them on board the ship.”

“Port Everglades and Holland America Line share a long history with the cruise line sailing from the port for nearly 90 years, and it was wonderful to support them and our friends at FCCA,” said Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Joseph Morris. “The smiles on the children's faces made it all worth it.”