TOY DRIVE IN CHICO A DRIVE-THROUGH EVENT
Blue Santa spreads joy while gathering donations in event put on by Chico Police and Salvation Army
CHICO » Santa Claus came out to collect toys for those on his nice list, but he didn’t wear his typical red garb. Instead, he wore blue.
The Chico Police Department partnered with the Salvation Army to host a “Pack the Patrol Car” drive-through toy drive Wednesday.
Blue Santa, as the Police Department’s version of the Christmas elf is called, wasn’t the only rare sight. A vintage police car that only comes out for special occasions greeted the other cars.
For those who wanted to donate money instead of a toy, the Salvation Army provided scanners for Apple Pay, Google Pay and Venmo.
Before the event even started, five cars showed up.
“It’s great to see the community come out and support the cause,” Michelle Walker, the public information officer for the Police Department said.
This year, over 1,000 local youths aged up to 14 will receive a Christmas gift, and their families a Christmas food box.
The children are referred to the Salvation Army by community partners including the Jesus Center, the Boys & Girls Club, Chico Housing Action Team, Chapman Elementary and Citrus Elementary. Many of the children are beneficiaries of the Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Program, Transitional Living program and the Family Service Office.
If anyone wants to contribute, visit chico.salvationarmy.org to learn how.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Chico Police Department for reaching out and providing this opportunity,” Arwyn Rodriguera, a co-leader of the Salvation Army Community Center said.