On Saturday, the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), Holland America Line, and Broward County’s Port Everglades hosted a holiday event aboard the Nieuw Statendam for about 40 children from the nonprofit Kids in Distress (KID).

The children, aged 3 to 16, enjoyed a three-course lunch, arts-and-crafts activities, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. They also received gifts from the FCCA and Port Everglades and a stuffed animal of Holland America Line’s mascot, Lewie the Lion. Holland America Line concluded the celebration by donating $5,000 to Kids in Distress.

Michele M. Paige, FCCA CEO, said: “We are beyond grateful for the efforts of so many that have made it possible to relaunch the Holiday Gift Project, which has brought presents and cheer to tens of thousands of underprivileged children over its 22 previous years and will benefit 23 destinations this year. 

“This would not be possible without our partnership with Diamonds International, which helped restart the Foundation itself, and Port Everglades, which came in as a partner sponsor for the FCCA Foundation Fundraising Dinner. They have shown the same commitment to our mission of building a foundation for children to support them in the present and future.”

 Henk Draper, Nieuw Statendam’s captain, added: “We are pleased to recognize the positive impact of organizations on the communities we visit. We thank Kids in Distress for their incredible work in helping children in need in greater Fort Lauderdale and it was our pleasure to welcome them on board the ship.”

“Port Everglades and Holland America Line share a long history with the cruise line sailing from the port for nearly 90 years, and it was wonderful to support them and our friends at FCCA,” said Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Joseph Morris. “The smiles on the children’s faces made it all worth it.”