For the seventeenth year in a row, The Toll Roads’ employees have helped Santa get presents to families at the Thomas House Family Shelter. Located in Garden Grove, Thomas House provides a safe, supportive environment and the resources necessary for homeless families with children to remain together while empowering them to become independent and self-sufficient.
Through The Toll Roads’ Santa’s Helpers Program, employees select a Thomas House resident to shop for based on that person’s wish list. Employees shop during their off hours using their own money and, in total, usually purchase gifts for 40 to 60 adults and 15 to 20 children.
“This year, I was a Santa’s Helper for a one year old who wanted anything Disney, so I bought a large stuffed Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse sippy cup and fuzzy slippers. I look forward each year to buying a gift for a child who is far less fortunate than my own. When wrapping the gift, I think of the smile on his or her face and the excitement they must feel when opening what I wrapped,” said The Toll Roads employee Bill.
“My family has participated in the Santa’s Helper Program for over six years now. The reward is not only the spirit of giving, but having my grandchildren contribute in, both, the selection of the gift and a contribution of a few coins from their own savings. It’s everyone working together to bring joy,” said The Toll Roads employee Tom.
“I picked a little girl who is four years old and loves Minnie Mouse. She had a Minnie Mouse tea set and anything Minnie Mouse on her wish list. I purchased the tea set and a plush Minnie dressed in pink. I was drawn to this little girl because I recently got a new puppy named Mini!” said The Toll Roads employee Linda.
Each year the Santa’s Helpers Program is spearheaded by The Toll Roads employee Dale. All of Santa’s Helpers count on her to be the lead elf and are thankful for the work she does to get gifts and holiday cheer to those in need.
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