The new year begins, as it always does, with a wish for wellbeing and hope that we would like to extend to all those who stand by us and whose support makes our work possible. Yet it is impossible to welcome 2026 without a silent and heartfelt thought for the tragedy in Crans-Montana, which has profoundly affected many families and, in particular, so many young people. As a foundation that works closely with children and adolescents in our local community, we strongly feel the importance of closeness and responsibility. It is in this spirit – one of awareness, care and attention – that we begin the year and share with you the results of our recent Christmas initiative.
The now well-established charity fundraiser “A Gift for Every Child – 2025 Edition” has recently come to a close, and once again we can only rejoice at the remarkable results achieved. Having grown in popularity over the years, the 2025 edition proved to be especially successful and was marked by many joyful moments, shared with all those who took part and came forward with initiatives of their own to contribute.
Under the Christmas tree, each of the 584 children and young people involved in the initiative – including residents of the CEM centres and asylum seekers supported by the Red Cross – received their own gift, carefully selected to meet individual needs. The fundraiser also made it possible to donate CHF 2,000 to the SAE (Educational Support Service), which will be used to assist many of the families currently supported.
As announced, the gifts for the 584 beneficiaries were individualised as follows:
- 41 vouchers for a full day of activities at Ca.Stella Farm in Meride
- 453 vouchers for the Splash & Spa Aquatic Centre, Tamaro
- 90 Manor vouchers worth CHF 30 each, redeemable in-store or online
In addition, every child and young person received a special-edition milk chocolate bar created for the initiative, made possible through an agreement with Chocolat Stella.
Branded “A Gift for Every Child” chocolate bars – both dark and milk – were also made available for purchase at My School Ticino, with all proceeds going towards the Christmas initiative. Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of the families and our staff, the charity sale at the school made a significant contribution to the overall fundraising effort. Our heartfelt thanks go to every donor.
We would also like to extend special thanks to Medacta International, a driving force behind much of our work; to Rotaract Ticino, who invited us to present the project at their Christmas brunch, followed by a successful charity auction in support of the initiative; and to the Rotary Club Bellinzona, an enthusiastic supporter. Finally, we thank the many generous friends who, as private donors, have long supported our initiatives with quiet and heartfelt commitment.
Our thanks also go to the management and staff of Chocolat Stella, Splash & Spa and Ca.Stella Farm. Their willingness to collaborate, their spirit of participation and their enthusiasm for the initiative were essential to the success of the project.
Our aim was simple yet deeply meaningful: to bring a smile and a moment of serenity to less fortunate children and young people during the Christmas period. Thanks to the support and closeness of so many, we can say that this goal has been achieved, confirming that shared commitment can translate into tangible help and truly make a difference.
Fondazione Medacta for Life promotes numerous charitable initiatives: locally and for the community – My Giving, abroad and in emergencies – My Mission; with scholarships for school attendance – My School Ticino. Any contribution is always appreciated and is entirely donated to the cause. All specifics on our dedicated page – DONATE NOW. We would like to remind you that donations are tax deductible, we are at your disposal for any questions, please contact us.
Once again, our heartfelt thanks for helping us to help others.