GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The holidays looked a lot different for the Santa Claus Girls last year.
On the day after Thanksgiving 2023, a fire at the DeltaPlex left thousands of toys destroyed. Those toys were set to be delivered to children across Kent County. Instead, the Santa Claus Girls were able to distribute gift cards.
But this Saturday, hundreds of volunteer drivers revved up their engines to yet again bring holiday cheer to thousands of families.
Rick Bartling, project manager for the YMCA Service Club who oversees the Santa Claus Girls delivery, said over 8,500 children were on their list for delivery on Saturday. Along with a toy, children receive a piece of clothing, hats and mittens, and a new book.
Santa Claus Girls has been serving Kent County for 116 years. Over that time, thousands of families in need have been helped for the holidays. Bartling said it's special to continue the tradition.
"It's a privilege that we can serve the community, and it's one that has built on the shoulders of those that have gone before," he said. "So I'm only the fifth person to do this job in the history of Santa Claus Girls. So these people have done a real dedication to their work."
He said working with the nonprofit is a great way to make a difference.
"This is my opportunity to give back to a community that has supported my family and has supported the businesses that I've worked for," Bartling said. "This is my opportunity to give back, to help the community, to reach out and and be a part of making the community better."
Kaitlynn and Trevor Brown have been volunteering with the Santa Claus Girls for about four years. What has become a family tradition has even deeper roots for Kaitlynn.
"My grandpa used to receive his presents from here when he was a little kid," she said. "So I just want to give people presents in this community, like he was able to receive his presents."
"You have a choice between lifting and and being lifted," Bartling said. "So if you have the opportunity to lift, lift."
The Santa Claus Girls have already begun fundraising for next year's gift distribution. Their goal is $200,000, and Bartling said they're about halfway there.
You can donate or volunteer here.
