People always say that nothing is for free, but here is something that really is: A customized letter to your child from Santa that you help create. And it will do more for other kids than your own.

At Letter from Santa, add personal details like your child’s name, best friend, good deeds, and home town, and your little guy or gal will be sure it’s the real thing. Just fill out a few answers, download the PDF to your computer and print it out. A personalized letter with a cheerful Santa face will put a big smile on any kid’s face.

And remember how I said it was free? It really is, but there is a slight catch. The website and design were actually put together by a family friend of a sick little four year-old boy named Emerson. His hope is that you like the letter, you’ll consider donating a dollar or two to help raise money to help with the expenses of caring for him.

Since the holidays are all about giving, I bet they’ll get a lot of help for Emerson. –Elizabeth

Go to Letter from Santa to print out your free letter to Santa and read Emerson’s story here.