In Fitchburg, Massachusetts, postal worker Kristy Tedeschi has dedicated years to facilitating holiday magic for children through her role as one of Santa’s special helpers. Each season, she manages hundreds of letters sent to and from the North Pole, significantly increasing the volume since the installation of a bright red mailbox at the Fitchburg Post Office in 2017.
Tedeschi, who has served at the post office located at 881 Main St. for the past 23 years, noted a remarkable growth in correspondence. “We never received more than 30 letters a year until the mailbox went up,” she said. Last year alone, the post office processed nearly 500 letters from children across the region, including from nearby New Hampshire and Rhode Island.
The joy of reading these heartfelt letters brings Tedeschi immense satisfaction. “Kids are so cute and they ask the funniest questions,” she remarked, explaining that she often includes fun facts in responses to enhance the magic of Santa’s replies. Tedeschi also takes special care to ensure that letters are delivered back to children, emphasizing the importance of clear names and addresses on each envelope.
She noted that while children’s letters are primarily her focus, she also receives correspondence from parents facing tough circumstances. “Every year I fundraise to try to help some of the adult letters,” she explained. Her commitment to community support shines through, as she recalls a particularly impactful experience from a few years ago. A mother, recently escaping a domestic violence situation, wrote to Santa seeking help for her two daughters. “We made that Christmas happen, and I will never forget how thankful she was,” Tedeschi said. “It makes it all worth it.”
Community Events and Holiday Spirit
In addition to her efforts with the Santa mailbox, Tedeschi is actively involved in local holiday events. The 20th annual Festival of Trees is on display at Leominster City Hall until December 18. This festive event features over 50 decorated trees, a model train, and restored sculptures created by the late Louis Charpentier. Proceeds from the silent auction of the trees benefit the Mayor’s Fuel Assistance Program and support various city events throughout the year.
The festival coincides with the upcoming Winter Stroll downtown on December 6, where community members can enjoy holiday festivities from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.. Residents can check the Leominster Lights Facebook page for details and access an interactive map highlighting beautiful holiday displays throughout the city.
For those still searching for the perfect Christmas tree, several local farms are offering options. Sholan Farms in Leominster, located at 1125 Pleasant St., provides both cut-your-own and precut trees, along with a popular holiday lights show running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Visitors can enjoy the display by parking in front, turning off their headlights, and tuning in to 89.5 FM for a festive musical experience.
Additionally, Hollis Hills Farm at 340 Marshall Rd. in Fitchburg is closing for the season on December 7, making this weekend the last chance to cut or purchase a tree there. Other options include Frommer’s Christmas Trees at Kimball Farm, which offers delivery to surrounding towns.
In a show of gratitude, local businesses are also honoring veterans and active-duty military personnel. Cauley’s Garden Center & Florist in Fitchburg is providing free trees to service members, while The Gardener’s Spot in Leominster welcomes veterans to select a free wreath or centerpiece and offers complimentary family photos on December 7 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
As the holiday season unfolds, community members are reminded of the importance of collaboration and support. Tedeschi’s work exemplifies the spirit of generosity and kindness that defines the season, making a lasting impact on the lives of families in need.
