SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Santa Claus is seeking a little help from the community this year with loading up his sleigh with toys, books, puzzles, games and more for children living in Arizona’s foster care system.
Join Santa and his volunteer elves from Arizona Helping Hands at the nonprofit’s Scottsdale warehouse from 5- 7 p.m. Dec. 6 where they are looking to fill a 20-foot truck with Christmas donations for foster children.
The Scottsdale nonprofit’s mission is to provide children in foster care with basic necessities, including beds or cribs so they have a safe place to sleep.
While some families are prepared to be foster care givers, many children are unexpectedly placed with relatives who have no ready resources for their new arrivals. Arizona Helping Hands offers those resources, and their warehouse holds thousands of items to provide support to foster families across the state.
“This is a community event to share what we do, and to fill a 20-foot truck with toys for Santa to provide to foster children in need,” said Dan Shufelt, president and CEO of Arizona Helping Hands. “We want to share our vision and make others aware of the needs faced every day by children in foster care in our state, and the families who care for them.”
Shufelt said visitors can bring new, unwrapped toys, games, books and puzzles for newborns to 12-year-olds.
Multiple local businesses and community leaders helped transform the warehouse into a winter wonderland for all to enjoy.
Supporting businesses who have generously donated their time and resources include RA Sushi, POMO Pizzeria Napoletana, the Simple Greek, Sam’s Club, Pour Masters Bartending, Dei-Zinz Floral, Munkeboe Party Linens, Ultimate DJ Entertainment, and Wadaa Tacos.
To learn more and watch Santa’s video invite, click here.