NEW YORK – For two decades, the spirit of Christmas has shone at Joseph DiMartino’s home on Staten Island.
The man, who is called the “Santa Claus of Staten Island,” turned his pain into a mission to help some of the most vulnerable. Every year, DiMartino wows the crowd with his Christmas light show, a Christmas tribute to his late wife.
A week before Thanksgiving DiMartino is already putting the finishing touches on its holiday display.
“For this to give someone some kind of hope, that’s my goal,” DiMartino said.
This year’s exhibit comes complete with COVID-19 biosecurity measures to protect viewers. The return of its annual holiday tradition also comes at a time when people might get a bit cheered up.
His tradition of decorating his Staten Island home began after he lost his wife in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Since then, he has used his home to spread joy to his neighborhood and to anyone who visits.
The Christmas display collections are donated each year to children battling cancer at the hospital where DiMartino’s late wife’s sister worked. Over nearly 20 years, his collections have raised more than $ 300,000.
“I am very happy that the ray of light in her memory keeps her alive, and also keeps me alive, and at the same time helps sick children. I always say that it is a win-win situation,” DiMartino said.
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