A longtime tradition will make the holiday season even more magical for the islands community.
The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club will hold its 52nd Annual Santa Run Gift Delivery on Dec. 23 on the islands, once again bringing cheer, surprise and a personal visit from Santa himself to homes.
Board Member Tom Uhler explained that the club came up with idea for the event more than five decades ago as families were having to head to the mainland if they wanted to visit with Santa.
“We thought, ‘Let’s do direct delivery to people’s homes,’” he said.
What began as a small event has grown in community participation over the years.
“We’re prepared to have up to five Santas,” Uhler said.
It is free and open to residents and visitors on Sanibel and Captiva.
“Santa Claus does not charge,” he said. “But the club does accept gratuity or tips.”
Those interested can take part by first preparing their holiday gifts.
“We can do it for kids, we can do it for pets, we can do for grandparents,” Uhler of the recipients.
Wrap and clearly address each present, place them in a black garbage bag, and drop them off at the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District’s Fire Station 171 by Dec. 23 at 5 p.m. Include with the bag the delivery address and coordinator’s name and phone number for a point of contact. For deliveries to condominiums, try to include detailed directions to the home.
“Condominiums can be a little tricky,” he said.
Also include some personal tidbits about each recipient when labeling their gifts.
“Whatever the parents can feed Santa, so he can make it very personalized,” Uhler said.
On Dec. 23, Santa will make the deliveries between 6 and 8 p.m.
“Santa will show up with the gifts and bring them into the house,” he said, explaining that he will distribute the gifts to all of the recipients and families are welcome to take photos with him.
“We typically have a number of stops, so we don’t want to dawdle too long,” Uhler added. “But we want Santa to be able to interact with the kids.”
The public is invited to take part.
“Typically, the majority of the visits that we do are to families who have come for Christmas from out of town. Kids are worried that Santa won’t find them because they’re not at home,” he said. “This is special because it lets us visit with the families that are here on vacation.”
For more information, contact Dick Muench at dick1312@aol.com or 239-410-6939.
Fire Station 171 is at 2361 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel.
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email