49ers owner continues Christmas gift tradition

The DeBartolo family has been donating gifts to kids for 40 years.

By JON MOFFETT

Vindicator Staff Writer

YOUNGSTOWN — About a dozen area children received their Christmas gifts a little early this year thanks to the generosity and big heart of a local family.

Denise DeBartolo York, who along with her husband, John York, own the San Francisco 49ers, visited the Millcreek Children’s Center on Wednesday with her son, Jed, and daughters Jenna and Mara to give presents to the children.

“I’m so gratified to be able to do what I love, and I love making a difference in the lives of children,” said DeBartolo York, who has given gifts to children at the center for the past 20 years.

The children, ages 4 and 5, performed a holiday concert for parents, siblings and others — including DeBartolo York and her family. After singing, the children each received a gift from DeBartolo York and were dismissed for their holiday break.

“It means a lot, and it’s really special because it helps out a lot especially when you don’t have a lot,” said Gina Jones of Youngstown, whose grandson, Danny Carter, was one of the present recipients. “It’s beautiful. She has a big heart, and she’s special to me.”

DeBartolo York said she gets just as much joy out of giving the presents.

“I think it’s important to see the looks on their faces and to let them know that people really care about them and wish them the best,” she said.

Sister Jerome Corcoran, executive director of the center, said the DeBartolo family has been donating presents for 40 years, starting with Denise’s mother.

“I could jump up and down, I could really jump up and down; I’m so excited,” Corcoran said. “One of the things I love about the DeBartolo [York] connection is there is a continuity of caring that goes on and will go on, and that is a great solace to me.”

Corcoran, 93, joked she expected to not to live “much longer than 103” but is confident the generosity displayed by DeBartolo York and her family will continue.

DeBartolo York said giving back to the community is simply in her blood.

“I think I’m lucky my parents taught me how to give back, and I’m trying to do likewise with my children,” she said. “It makes them well-rounded, good human beings.”

DeBartolo York downplayed the gift-giving and focused her attention on the Christmas concert instead.

The children sang three songs — “Must Be Santa,” “Jingle Bells” and “Frosty the Snowman” — for their parents.

“I thought it was outstanding, probably the greatest Christmas performance I’ll see this year,” she said.

Danny was all smiles after the concert, toting a gift bag almost as big as he was.

“I hope it’s a race car,” he said grinning. “That’s what I really want.”

jmoffett@vindy.com