Residents of Kaimakli were pleasantly surprised on Sunday evening when Cypriot businessman John Christodoulou toured the neighbourhood on a festively decorated truck, handing out gifts to children of all ages and spreading Christmas cheer throughout the streets.
From the back of the brightly adorned truck, Christodoulou, joined by a team of volunteers from the Youth Association Proodos Kaimakli, distributed generous gifts across Kaimakli and surrounding areas, delighting families and drawing smiles from young and old alike.
As Christmas music filled the air, lights illuminated the streets and Santa Claus’s familiar “Ho Ho Ho” echoed through the neighbourhood, a large convoy of cars accompanied the festive procession. Curious and delighted residents stepped out of their homes to witness the unexpected celebration, as children eagerly received their presents.
The Christmas tour lasted around three hours and was met with enthusiastic applause and warm reactions from the local community.
In a Christmas message, Christodoulou said: “Children must have dreams, it is extremely important. When we have great dreams and work for them, they can become reality.”
The initiative was carried out in the spirit of generosity, love and solidarity promoted by the Yianis Christodoulou Foundation values that, organisers said, should guide society year-round, and especially during the festive season.
Through his philanthropic foundation, Christodoulou has remained highly active in supporting vulnerable children, delivering numerous projects and donating significant funds aimed at improving their quality of life.
From the neighbourhoods of Kaimakli and Syngrasis in Kyrenia, where his journey began, Christodoulou went on to build an international business empire. A self-made magnate with a strong presence in the real estate and hospitality sectors, his group includes hotels affiliated with major international brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Park Inn and Radisson Blu.
Despite his global success, the billionaire Cypriot refugee has remained deeply connected to his homeland and continues to express profound concern over the ongoing occupation, maintaining close ties to the community that shaped him.