The rebuild has been slow for the towns in central Italy affected by a strong earthquake back in August this year. The 6.2 earthquake devastated the villages of Amatrice, Accumoli, Posta and Arqanta del Tronto; killing nearly 300 people and leaving thousands homeless
However, last week the children of Amatrice were given a very festive reason to smile.
A group of parachuters, one of whom was dressed as Santa, landed in a village near Amatrice to hand out gifts to children who were eagerly waiting below. Many of the children have been living in tents and temporary housing since the August earthquake.
Professional skydiver and Alpine rescuer, Carlo Capuano said that the jump went well, “… The children were very happy and we didn’t think about the devastation [from the earthquake] because in the children’s smiles, we saw so much light and so much joy.”
The group behind the jump was Italy’s National Parachute Association, who also donated nearly 3000 Euros to help rebuild schools and nurseries damaged by the quake.
Professional skydiver, Enrico Marcucci, who dressed up as Santa for the day said, “Flying with the parachute opened in free fall, dressed as Santa Claus, brings joy. It’s a beautiful thing because you are doing something good.”
Watch Santa’s skydiving journey below:
Video credit – ODN
