LYNN — For four years, Ralphie’s 12 Days of Christmas Raffle out of Lynn City Hall has helped raise money for the late deputy collector Ralph Cronin’s favorite charity, Santa’s Helping Hands.
“He was always first in line for any sort of charity event. He was truly a whole-hearted man,” said Beth Watson, who works in the Lynn Assessor’s Office.
To help carry on Cronin’s giving legacy, Watson thought of the idea of the raffle, which includes prizes from restaurants and businesses all over Lynn, the city that Cronin loved so much.
All proceeds go to Santa’s Helping Hands, which helps give children in need a coat and present around the holidays.
“It’s my favorite day of the year,” Watson said.
The raffle helps remind of people of the joy of Cronin, someone who touched the lives of many city hall employees, including City Clerk Janet Rowe.
“He was more than just a boss, he was so giving and wonderful,” Rowe said.
“I don’t know anyone who didn’t like him.”
Watson says that she can still remember Cronin’s special outfits for the holidays and his unique laugh.
“He had a tie for every holiday, I can still hear his one-of-a-kind chuckle. He was such a wonderful person to have around,” Watson said.
Just as Cronin would never ask for any credit for his good deeds, Watson says that helping the children is the most important thing.
“He did everything out of the goodness of his heart and that is what this is about. It’s all about helping others.”
