Skydiving Santa gives presents to children affected by Italian earthquake
The group also donated nearly €3000 to re-build local schools
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A parachuting Father Christmas has landed in a village in central Italy bearing gifts for children affected by a powerful earthquake that hit the area this summer.
The group of eight parachuters, one dressed as Santa Claus, flew over Amatrice, the hill town at the earthquake’s epicentre.
They were then greeted on the ground in the nearby village of Somatti by a cheering crowd of children, who had gathered to welcome the visitors.
Each taking a turn to sit on Santa’s knee, the children received gifts and sweets.
Many used to live in Amatrice before the town was destroyed by the earthquake. They now live in tents and temporary accommodation in nearby cities and villages.
The skydivers, members of Italy’s national parachute association from the nearby city of Terni, also donated nearly €3000 (£2500) to Somatti’s schools and nursery to help with the reconstruction effort.
The devastating earthquake struck central Italy on August 24, killing nearly 300 people and leaving thousands homeless.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments