What is Santa's Helpers? |
Santa's Helpers is a holiday toy drive and Christmas party provided by JCI Santa Clarita - a nonprofit in the Santa Clarita providing a variety of development opportunities for young active citizens - benefiting underprivileged children (newborn to 18 years) in the Santa Clarita Valley.
With support of local businesses and community members, the Jaycees (as JCI Santa Clarita members are more affectionately known) collect, sort, and wrap toys collected in toy donation boxes placed around SCV during November and early December. On a very special Saturday in December, the children and their families then get to attend a memorable Christmas party with Santa Claus and his merry crew. They can participate in arts & crafts, listen to Dickens-style carolers, and - best of all - ice skate in a private rink (the first time for many). Santa and his very trusty penguin will also be available for photographs. |
How did it get started? |
Santa’s Helpers started in 1999 with the simple goal of providing presents to underprivileged children in the Santa Clarita Valley on Christmas Eve. A toy drive was held and the children wrote their letters to Santa. Then, the Jaycees (as JCI Santa Clarita members are more affectionately known) would read and decide which kids would receive the toys. On Christmas Eve, Santa and his elves would deliver these toys to each child at their home.
The project has expanded significantly - serving 258 kids in 2017. Now, children are invited to a Christmas party where Santa delivers their gifts. In 2018, the Santa's Helpers project will be 20 years old and making it the longest running project for JCI Santa Clarita. |
What is
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Junior Chamber International (JCI) Santa Clarita is the premier membership-based nonprofit organization of young active citizens between the ages of 21-40. The Jaycees, as JCI Santa Clarita members are more affectionately known, are dedicated to creating positive change in their communities. We believe that to improve the world around us - we must also work to improve our selves. Our members are provided with a variety of development opportunities - many of which also benefit the community.
To learn more visit: jcisantaclarita.com |