THE CHRISTMAS MAGIC OF HELPING

Lasts all year long

Although it is worth helping, and even necessary, not only at Christmas, helping combined with the Christmas magic of kindness tastes best. As every year, in January we sum up the action of New Year's presents, which we traditionally give to our partners. It is not easy to be told at the end of the year that MAEM, as usual, sets the standard; fortunately, we have succeeded once again.

The year 2020 has turned many aspects of our lives upside down. Christmas gifts were no different. March is the time when concepts and ideas for New Year's gifts clash in the marketing department. Yes, we're already in March talking about the gifts you receive from us in December. Taking care of the smallest details is like a maturing wine - it does not like rush or time pressure. When, in the heat of preparation and discussion, reality brutally made us realize that this year is going to be diametrically different from all the others, we decided to verify plans and adjust gifts to the difficult situation we expected.

We decided to bet on symbolism. We wanted to look even more closely than usual at the needs of the vulnerable in need and we allocated about half of the budget to support animal shelters. In the face of a pandemic and an uncertain future, many of them have lost their regular donors. Beginning in March, each month we allocated a portion of the gift budget to help a different animal shelter. In total, we supported nine shelters, with a diverse focus. Thanks to us, horse Ivan, dog Bunia and koala bear Charlotte could count on continued caring. We also changed our approach to the gifts themselves. Where possible, we replaced commercial vendors with manufacturers under the care of non-profit organizations. Thanks to this initiative we have a beautiful calendar filled with pictures painted by Mr Andrzej, a member of the Foundation of Disabled Artists and delicious gingerbreads were baked for us by the disabled working in the Taste Manufactury confectionery located in Jaroslaw.

As every year, we received a lot of thanks and warm words of support for our approach to New Year's gifts. We are glad that our partners, like us, understand the idea of sharing, especially in difficult times. Giving brings much more joy than receiving. Next year, regardless of the situation, we will continue this year's concept. We hope that helping together will become our tradition.