Burbank Temporary Aid Center hosted its annual Santa’s Room this past week for its clients. On December 18, one of the two days of service, more than 100 parents selected gifts for their children. Volunteers from Logix Federal Credit Union restocked shelves and guided parents through Santa’s Room to select the perfect gifts.
“We are proud to be donating our time to Santa’s Room for a third consecutive year,” said Alethia Calagias, Community Relations Specialist at Logix. “Our employees are grateful for the opportunity to make the shopping experience special for BTAC clients. When the kids open their presents, the joy is contagious – the families deserve to have that warm feeling this holiday season.”
During the day, the Burbank Fire Department dropped off more gifts and the Police Department sent an officer to help distribute presents. To participate, clients register with BTAC and make an appointment to visit Santa’s Room. And, members of the community and local businesses donate toys, gift cards, games, dolls, books and more. Volunteers sort the gifts for the appropriate ages – from newborns to teens – and are those items are placed in different rooms for parents to select the presents.
“Our clients look forward to deciding what gifts their children receive,” said Dee Call, BTAC Board Member and Santa’s Room organizer. “We used to look at the children’s wish lists and package the gifts for them. Now, they are part of the process and we give them paper and tape to wrap them at home. It’s rewarding for them and the volunteers.”
