Lisa D’Cato

Poinciana Writer

Christmas falls on a Tuesday this year, so this will be my column recognizing this holiday.

For the past 12 years, I have been fortunate to write this Poinciana column for the Osceola News-Gazette. My Christmas column was always one of reflection and ultimately gratitude. This year, I would like to shine a light on two programs designed to enhance the lives of those among us less fortunate.

More than a year ago, the television news show 60 minutes aired a report on the homeless children population in Central Florida, specifically the U.S. Highway 192 area. At that time, there was shock and disbelief from many in our local communities.

Flash forward to December 2012. How many of us realize or pay attention to the numerous bus stops now on 192. There are still so many homeless children living in the hotels once used to lure in tourists. Right next door to “The happiest place on earth” is a new normal. Children who live with their parents in these hotels are bused to Osceola County schools.

The Osceola County School District acknowledges and looks to help these people hit hard during these difficult times with the Families in Transition (FIT) program. The mission of the FIT program is to identify students in transition, remove systematic barriers to their education including school enrollment, transportation, re-assignments and to provide links to community resources while maintaining school as the student’s stable environment.

Now just imagine this time of year for a FIT kid. There are holiday parties, school Christmas plays and reminders of this joyous season and a FIT kid has not much to anticipate when school goes into winter break mode. The School District does provide gifts for these kids, who are identified by guidance counselors and assisted into the program (all done discreetly).

The Poinciana area has been especially hit hard. Over 200 students at Poinciana High School alone are part of the - FIT program. Donations to FIT always are welcome. Call 407-870-4983 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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I have been writing about Santa’s Helping Hands since October. The need for Poinciana children and their families is just as high, if not higher, this year. There is still time left to donate. Drop off any new and unwrapped toy, for any age child through teen, at Poinciana Starbucks, NYPD Pizza, ReMax/ Pioneer Realty, Quizno’s, Pazza Luna Restraint, Poinciana Community Center, APV administration offices, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or call 407-846-7122 to donate or if you know of a family that needs assistance.

After the horrific shooting of innocents this past weekend in Connecticut, let’s value, appreciate and help our Poinciana children.

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If you have any news or information that you would like to share call Lisa D’Cato at 407-846-7122 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .