GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — After facing a devastating setback last year, the Santa Claus Girls are back on track and ready to bring holiday cheer to thousands of children in Kent County.
The West Michigan organization, which has been serving the community for over a century, had to halt its operations in 2023 due to a fire. It destroyed their drop-off location, the Deltaplex, and resulted in the loss of 5,000 toys.
“It’s a great thing that we can give out gifts again,” said Nancy Vitta, Vice President of Santa Claus Girls. “This year is a little bit different because of last year, with the fire and everything we had to close down. It was a tough year for us, but we’re back.”
Despite the setback, the organization managed to provide gift cards to children in need last Christmas, but this year, they’re returning to their roots—hand-delivering gifts directly to children across Kent County. Their goal for 2024 is to serve up to 14,000 kids.
They have been accepting donations from people throughput the community including hand made gloves, hats and baby doll clothes.
The delivery day, scheduled for December 14 at 7:30 a.m., will involve around 250 to 300 volunteer drivers. Each driver will be responsible for delivering 12 to 14 packages of gifts, including a toy, blanket, hat, gloves and a book to children across the area.
“They come in, line up, have time slots and go out to deliver,” Vitta explained. “It's a joy to know that you're serving all these kids in Kent County."
The Santa Claus Girls’ impact extends beyond the children they help. Many volunteers have personal ties to the organization, having been recipients of gifts from Santa Claus Girls themselves as children.
“That’s how some of our volunteers come to be,” Vitta said. “They remember when Santa Claus Girls helped them, and now they want to give back.”
Founded 116 years ago, Santa Claus Girls has remained a staple in the community, bringing holiday joy to families in need.
This year, as they resume their full operations, the organization is asking for continued support to help reach their goal of serving 14,000 children.
To learn more about how you can contribute to the cause or to volunteer, visit the Santa Claus Girls website.