Harvard Donates Kiosk

A Harvard-donated stall in Holyoke Center Arcade aims to raise money for children worldwide through sales of holiday gifts.

The stand, which operates during the holiday season, reopened yesterday. It features cards, calendars and gifts that will raise money for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

According to Harry R. Irving, director of UNICEF New England, Harvard donated the kiosk and fixed the lights yesterday morning.

"Harvard has been so generous in giving us this space for free," Irving said. "We would like to convey our appreciation to Harvard real estate and the University for their generosity."

The kiosk has stood in the Holyoke Center for three years. Passers-by can purchase toys, T-shirts, hats, ties, books, ornaments and stationery from the stand. The 1998 UNICEF catalog and literature on the organization are also available.

"Everyone's enthusiastic and helpful, this year's designs are wonderful, and it's a great opportunity for people in Harvard Square to help save children's lives," said Dona Spurlock, a kiosk salesperson.

The kiosk's management takes care to point out the significance of every purchase to customers. For example, the purchase of one card will buy enough vaccine to immunize seven children against measles. The purchase of two packs of greeting cards will buy a large chalkboard and school supplies for a developing nation classroom.

UNICEF promotes the rights of women and children through education, advocacy and fund-raising.

"The kiosk is part of the New England chapter's efforts to raise money for UNICEF and increase awareness about the organization," Irving said.

The kiosk will be open seven days a week through Dec. 24, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

The United Nations founded UNICEF in 1946 as a part of relief efforts for post-World War II Europe. Since then, the international agency's work has shifted from emergency assistance to sustainable development, although it still provides aid to areas affected by war or natural disaster.

According to Irving, UNICEF's role has evolved primarily into an "international broker of developmental services."

"UNICEF mainly coordinates relief efforts. It doesn't necessarily dig the wells or jab the kids. Rather, it contacts [non-government organizations] to step in and do that work," Irving said. "Its role is unique in that way."