Blue Santa’s nice list is extra-long this year -- so long that the Austin Police Department could use your help in making the holidays bright for some kids.
Operation Blue Santa is collecting toys. You can drop yours off at Chuy's or any Austin Fire Department, and CBS Austin is holding our own toy drive next Wednesday at the Walmart along I-35 near Parmer Lane.
“Well first of all it’s the 50th year anniversary which I think is pretty special, and something that we should celebrate here in Austin,” Austin Police Chief Joseph Chacon said. It's been a tradition for half a century. CBS Austin has worked with APD on Blue Santa for 21 of those years. It's now just days away from delivery day, and every donated toy is needed.
“It’s even more critical right now with rising inflation and affordability issues here in Austin,” said Chacon, adding that Operation Blue Santa provides toys and food to thousands of families who are having a hard time making ends meet in Austin.
It's not a surprise that number is up this year.
“The community just needs to know the Austin Police Department is always going to stand with them and we’re happy to be doing it again. I think we’ve received seven thousand applications this year, far more than we’ve ever received before,” he said.
Meantime, Austinites are filling in as elves as the toys begin to come in. “We have a full-time crew at our full Santa warehouse that are sorting, that are preparing the gift boxes and we’ll be ready for the December 17th delivery day so we can deliver all of those gifts on that day,” said the chief.
Blue Santa could also use volunteers for delivery day, December 17. You can sign up on their website.