Guard families in need to get holiday help from Santa

  • Published
  • By Colorado National Guard
  • Public Affairs
CENTENNIAL, Colo. --  The Colorado National Guard Family Programs office has again teamed up with Santa to provide Christmas presents for National Guard families in need.

The annual "Santa Shops" are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Colorado National Guard facilities in Centennial, Grand Junction and Colorado Springs.

Santa Claus will make an appearance from 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

The Santa Shops provide an opportunity for parents to "shop" for their children, and children to "shop" for their parents - all at no cost.

At a moment's notice, Colorado Guardsman may be asked to support our state and nation, which sometimes puts a heavy financial burden on their families. Because of these unique challenges associated with their military service, they may also face financial hardship.

A craft table at all locations will be run by elves (Guardsmen, family members and civilian employees) who will help children wrap gifts for their parents. Other elves, including USO and Salvation Army volunteers, will provide refreshments.

All Santa Shop gifts are donated.

The locations for the CONG Santa Shop will be as follows:

Joint Force Headquarters-Colorado
6848 S. Revere Pkwy.
Centennial, Colo., 80112

Chestnut Armory
3200 N. Chestnut
Colorado Springs, Colo., 80907

Grand Junction Readiness Center
2820 Riverside Pkwy.
Grand Junction, Colo., 81501

For Assignment Editors:

Media is welcome to visit the Centennial Santa Shop between 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Media interested in attending should confirm attendance with Army National Guard Sgt. Joseph VonNida at 720-250-1058. Media should arrive no later than 12 p.m.

Media is welcome to visit the Colorado Springs Santa Shop between 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Media interested in attending should confirm attendance with Airen Hall at 719-640-2115. Media should arrive no later than 12 p.m.

Media is welcome to visit the Grand Junction Santa Shop between 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Media interested in attending should confirm attendance with Daniell Hindson 720-250-5571. Media should arrive no later than 12 p.m.