During my many years working at Hillside in foster care, kinship, and adoption services, I have seen first-hand the pure joy that the Special Santa program brings to children and their families. While kids in our programs have experienced very difficult challenges in life, there is a commonality in the happiness that comes from opening a brightly colored gift during the holiday season. For many of our kids, this is the first time that they have received a present all their own, which contributes so much to their feeling of belonging. The adults in their lives always express gratitude that Hillside provides something that they may not have the means to give, regardless of their desire to do so. The celebration around gift giving creates a memorable, shared family experience.

For over 40 years, Special Santa has put toys and gifts into the hands of vulnerable children and families served by Hillside. Last year alone, nearly 4,000 kids received over 7,000 presents through this amazing effort.

Please consider a donation today that will help make the holidays brighter for thousands of children. For many that we serve, the gift they receive through Special Santa will be their only present throughout the holiday season.

Jean Galle, Vice President of Community Based and Developmental Opportunity Services