Our History:

Santa Claus of Chaffey District, Inc. was founded in 1955 when two ladies attended an afternoon PTA meeting.  They noticed a young girl with no jacket playing in the cold air.  They asked the teachers if they could make a jacket for the girl, and were told they could, but they would have to make two jackets because the girl had a sister.  The ladies made the jackets and included some gently used dolls they had cleaned and dressed in the packages.  The packages were given to the girl's parents to be given at Christmas from Santa Claus.  We have been in continuous operation from that time, and are now providing that "Santa Claus" experience for 4000-5000 children each year.

How We Work:

From February through December, we receive donations of both new and gently used toys and other items suitable for children from 0-12 years old, as well as items an entire family can enjoy.  We work to repair and refurbish the used items, and blend them with new items into packages containing several toys or other items.  Our completed packages are displayed on shelving units.  The parents of the children needing toys come to our facility, where they shop for packages most appropriate for each of their children.  By allowing the parents to choose the gifts, each child has a better chance of receiving something they really want for Christmas.  Our goal is to provide each child with at least one book, a primary package of toys, a "bonus" package of toys, and candy for the stockings.  Some families receive an additional family gift - something that everyone can enjoy!  We are completely dependent upon the donations we receive throughout each year, so the availability can vary.