It’s a tradition that has warmed hearts for over 25 years — the Santa Clara Rotary’s Christmas 4 Kids event. On Thursday, Dec. 12 at their usual location — Lexus of Stevens Creek— the dedicated Rotarians along with their generous donors and volunteers, came together to make the holiday season a little brighter for close to 200 students from Santa Clara Unified School District’s (SCUSD) elementary schools.
With many families facing financial uncertainty — between the high cost for food, gas and rent in the Bay Area — things like a new warm jacket for the coldest months of the year can seem like a luxury. This is where Santa Clara Rotary’s Christmas 4 Kids lend a helping hand.
Children chosen to participate in the program are treated to a fun time with tons of activities. They get the royal treatment and receive rides to and from their schools in buses provided by Royal Coach. During the Christmas 4 Kids event, children can get their faces painted, participate in arts and crafts, and get fitted for and receive a new warm jacket. There was also a delicious lunch with special guests and visitors.
Santa Claus — aka Bob Buchser — always makes a grand entrance to the event and this year was no exception as he entered accompanied by Mrs. Claus, portrayed by Santa Clara Rotarian Harbir Bhatia, in a sleek and sporty Lexus convertible. The beeping horn alerted the children that Santa had arrived and that meant a chance to meet him and pose for a photo on his lap.
SJ Sharkie, the Grinch and Darren the Lion also made appearances and added to the fun.
Based on everyone’s beaming smiles, it was hard to say who enjoyed the event more, the students or their teachers and school staff who were there to accompany them.
For more information on Santa Clara Rotary and their future meetings and events, visit their webpage.
