Guard families in need to get holiday help from Santa

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

The 5th annual "Santa Shops" are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 10, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Colorado National Guard facilities in Centennial and Colorado Springs.

Santa Claus will make his appearance from 11 a.m.-noon at both locations.

At these Santa Shops, parents will be able to "shop" for their children, and children will be able 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.

The first Santa Shops, held in 2006, were only open families who had someone who was deployed or had a special need. Since then, thanks to overwhelming community support over the last four years, the Santa Shops has been, and will again be open to all CONG families.

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

FOR ASSIGNMENT EDITORS:

Media are welcome to visit the Centennial Santa Shop between 11 a.m.-noon. Media interested in attending should confirm attendance with Air Force Capt. Darin Overstreet at 303-726-4716. Media should arrive at the southwest gate no later than 11 a.m.

Media are welcome to visit the Colorado Springs Santa Shop between 11 a.m.-noon. Media interested in attending should confirm attendance with Army Sgt. Benjamin Crane at 720-318-6090. Media should arrive at the southwest gate no later than 11 a.m.