No borders for Santa Claus.
In the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, the children's favorite character knows no bounds when it comes to reaching his destination and delivering his gifts.
Perched on the prow of a large motorboat, he greets his young fans who are waiting for him firmly on the shore.
Here are 10 AFP images that prove Santa Claus doesn't forget anyone.
1. Its red and white coat contrasts with the emerald green of the world's largest tropical forest and the brown waters of the Solimoes River.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
2.
“Merry Christmas!
», He exclaims before docking, shaking a bell, in the locality of Parana da Terra Nova, 24 km from Manaus, the largest Amazonian metropolis.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
3. When he finally sets foot ashore, after three hours of sailing, this Santa Claus unlike any other opens his arms wide to welcome the toddlers running towards him.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
4. “We can't change the world, but we can make children smile at Christmas,” says Jorge Alberto, 57, bundled up in his thick costume, his pom-pom hat and his false white beard, despite the stifling heat.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
5. And to bring the gifts to those who live in the most isolated areas, he sometimes has to face a real obstacle course.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
6. But when Amazonian Santa Claus arrives at his destination, the reward is there: the smile from ear to ear for children who forget their harsh reality for a while, in a region severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
7. “Our challenge is to go where no one is going.
We don't just come to distribute gifts, we come to bring joy, ”
explains Denise Kassama, 50, coordinator of the project which plans to reach 4,000 children by Christmas.
MICHAEL DANTAS / AFP AFP or licensors
