More than a dozen Natixis Global Asset Management employees made the holiday season brighter for hundreds of local elementary school children during an annual “Frosty Friends” celebration in Dorchester last Friday.

During the Frosty Friends event, Natixis employees presented holiday gifts to each of the John Winthrop Elementary School’s 356 students.  

The Frosty Friends event is part of the Natixis Adopt-a-School program held in partnership with the City of Boston, which gives private companies the opportunity to make a direct, sustained impact on individual Boston schools. The goal is to enhance student education and improve learning environments through technology upgrades, facilities improvements, social services support and special volunteer programs.

“Frosty Friends is a wonderful annual tradition, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to spend such a fun day with these great students to celebrate the holidays,” said Rob Lyons, senior vice president of finance at Natixis Global Asset Management. “During the past three years, the Adopt-a-School program has enabled our company to become a part of the Winthrop School in a deep and meaningful way, and we’re fortunate to be able to work so closely with students, faculty and staff.”

Since “adopting” the Winthrop School in 2012, Natixis provided new laptops, iPads and smart boards, developed a highly successful mentoring program, launched a structured recess program and created an outdoor garden, among other things.

The Natixis Adopt-a-School program was also highlighted by Boston Mayor Marty Walsh during a recent Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce event as a result of its tremendous impact, particularly in the areas of technology, mentoring and the arts.