The children sat down after their lunch and listened patiently to the teacher. She told them
“We have a special guest today, children”. She asked them to
“Close your eyes, put your hands together and wish really, really hard and your wish may come true — go ahead, close your eyes.”
The children did just as they were instructed. Some clamped their mouths shut, some clenched their fists tight and some of the children tried to sneak a peek, but they were all wishing the same thing.
With a jingle of the bells and a hearty HO-HO-HO, Santa entered the children’s classroom on the Tohono O’odham Reservation, located in southern Arizona. The children of this Head Start center were part of the SWIRC Program’s Santa Stops.
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“The reindeer heard you calling for me all the way to the North Pole.” There were gasps and smiles as wide as Santa’s stomach as he entered the room. It didn’t take long for the news to spread to some of the parents in the community. They came to witness and share the joy of this special visitor with their children.
The children were given a chance to talk to Santa before receiving their special stocking… “I writed a letter to you, Santa.” “I got cookies for you.” “Me too, Santa!” “I have milk and cookies at my house.”
Each child raised their hand and took turns sharing something about themselves with Santa. Many children mentioned their brothers and sisters at home. Some talked about their pets. One boy listed each of his five sisters to Santa, making sure he would remember all of his family during the holidays. Another boy was very quiet, but Santa took special notice of his Spider Man t-shirt and said there was something special for him in the stocking.
The children were then asked to line up — one by one — and sit on Santa’s lap to receive their special present. The children lined up, showing extraordinary patience and whispered with one another excitedly. Each child approached Santa and gave him their name while Santa carefully pulled each student to his lap. Santa’s helpers were ready, passing the red-and-white stocking to its rightful owner. It was a two-handed pass, because Santa made sure the stockings were filled to the brim.
Each child sat patiently with their stocking while Santa handed out the rest of the stockings to their classmates. Once all of the children were seated, they all opened their stockings and looked through each item.
The stockings were filled with fruit, toys, books, crayons, frisbees, balls, hats, gloves, socks, candy, puzzles, and mouthwash, everything a young child could enjoy and use!
“I like the Frisbee, I can play with my dog”. “My favorite is the Toy.” The quiet boy was especially pleased when he saw the Spiderman puzzle as part of his gifts.
The Santa Stop was a success and all the children shouted “Thank You Santa — Thank You Santa’s Helpers” as Santa and his team left for their next stop.
Santa was able to help provide the joy and cheer of the holidays, thanks to our generous and caring donors.
Thank you for your support year-round!
