200 children make it a record

THE Three Kings magic spread a little further this year in one corner of Palma, with almost 200 children receiving gifts at the Church of the Caputxins, close to Plaza España.  

For almost 20 years, the church has offered presents to children of underprivileged families and this week a record number turned out to celebrate the most important date in the Spanish festive calendar. 

Throughout the year, old toys are cleaned or repaired and handed out with new ones, some donated by local businesses.  Parents can request a gift by registering their children’s name and age.

The arrival of the Three Kings was greeted enthusiastically by local families and many other expatriate residents from Africa, eastern Europe and South America. 

Jose David Viveros, aged five, visited with his mother, Jimena originally from Colombia.  He was hoping for a bicycle, but was happy to receive a watch: “I cannot tell the time yet, but it’s a good way to learn,” he said.

Rosa Oviedo Flores, a church volunteer for five years originally from Chile said their work never stops: “It’s important that we offer support and help to everyone in the community now more than ever.”