For the 7th year in a row, on Saturday, December 10th, First Christian Church will once again have the privilege and honor of hosting Operation Santa Claus in conjunction with Tesoro Golden Eagle Refinery, The Blue Star Mothers of Contra Costa County, Englund’s Catering, and the Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley.  Even though grants and donations this year are down from years past, ways have been found so that 120 deserving military families and 250 plus children will be treated to a day of pure fun and enjoyment.  This will be a day when these families can, for a short period of time, leave their care’s and worries behind them and enjoy the spirit of giving that is the Christmas season.  For these are families, many who have a mom or dad (in some cases both parents) serving overseas, getting ready to deploy, or just recently returned from a tour of duty. 

This year each child will be able to fill a Christmas sock with candy and small toys, get their picture taken while visiting with Santa, and then proceed to Santa’s Workshop (the Lobby) to pick out a toy from a large and diverse selection.

One of the things that had to be deleted from this year’s festivities was the snow hill, due to budget constraints.  However, the kids will be treated to a giant inflatable slide, a couple of bouncy houses, and a fire truck from the Tesoro Refinery Fire Department.  The day will also include arcade games, face painters, and a build a bear station.  As in the past years, all will be treated to a munificent buffet lunch, courtesy of Englund’s’ Catering.

Please come and visit us during the day’s festivities.  See parts of the FCC campus transformed into the Spirt of Christmas.  Come and hear two (2) of the local High School Girl’s Choirs’ perform beautify Christmas Carols and songs.  But most of all, come and share in the joy and happiness of children having fun.

If you are interested in helping host this event -- either the day of the event, or helping set up the day before on Dec 9 -- please contact Bill Bush who will greatly appreciate your help!