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Annual Archbishop's Christmas Benefit For Children Marks Its 58th Year In Philadelphia

By Mark Abrams

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Some 400 youngsters attended the 58th annual Archbishop's Christmas benefit for children on Thursday at the Sheraton Hotel in Center City.

There was ice cream, cookies, coloring books and crayons and all kinds of gifts for the youngsters who take part in various programs administered by Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Archbishop Charles Chaput says the event is a joyful time for the youngsters and those who organize it.

"A wonderful place to be and it kind of makes us aware of how much need there is in the community and how important for all of us to get together to make everybody's life happier and more whole," said Archbishop Chaput.

The Archbishop says he's gratified by all the work that goes into making the party possible.

"I don't do the work myself, I encourage it of course and I want to support my staff as much as I can but I'm just very proud of all the people who made this happen - the donors as well as the workers."
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