North Austin News

The Austin Police Department (APD) is calling on the public to lend a helping hand in delivering toys and presents to families in need through their annual Operation Blue Santa. On Saturday, December 16, 2023, volunteers are sought to make this holiday season a little brighter for children in the Austin community.

The event will take place at various locations across the city, including the Blue Santa Warehouse on South Industrial Drive, the Green Garage at the Domain, and the APD East and South Substations. Volunteers are encouraged to arrive at 8:00 a.m. and bring their own vehicles for transportation.

The ideal volunteer, according to the APD, is someone who is "willing to be on Blue Santa's nice list" and possesses a valid driver's license. Additionally, volunteers are expected to operate a four-wheeled vehicle, although reindeers are not included. For those who want to add an extra touch of holiday spirit, a good taste in holiday jams is optional.

No pre-registration is required for volunteer drivers. They can simply show up at one of the designated sites and have the gifts loaded into their cars. The APD emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety and security of the gifts during transportation. Volunteers who will be using trailers or have boxes exposed to open air are advised to bring straps, tie-downs, and waterproof tarps in case of rain.

Operation Blue Santa has been a staple in the Austin community for the past 50 years. It all began when two APD officers discovered that 20 families in their patrol area would not have a meal or gifts for their children on Christmas Eve. Determined to make a difference, the officers rallied together and collected new and used toys, candy, and food for the 22 recipient families.

This act of compassion ignited a tradition that has grown each year. Last year, on the 50th Anniversary of Operation Blue Santa, the program provided for 5,000 families, impacting the lives of over 17,000 children in Austin. The success of this longstanding mission can be attributed to the generosity and support of the community.

So, if you're looking to spread some holiday cheer and make a meaningful impact in the lives of families in need, consider joining Operation Blue Santa. As the APD aptly puts it, "Help us make this the best day of the year by delivering thousands of gifts to children all around Austin!"

Let's come together as a community and ensure that every child in Austin experiences the joy and magic of the holiday season.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.austintexas.gov/news/austin-police-operation-blue-santa-searches-volunteers-deliver-toys-families