S. WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. – Dorney Park is ringing in the holiday season.
Students and first responders gathered to celebrate the “Heroes for the Holidays” program.
69 News Reporter Cierra Genelle has more on the gift that keeps on giving.
“I got two gifts for everybody,” said Julian, a 5th grader at Ironton Elementary School. “And a little extra for me,” Julian said.
Julian is grabbing his shopping bags and stepping on into Santa’s Workshop.
He’s joined by his new friend Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Nick Uva. The two had quite the successful shopping spree at Target.
“I’m writing the tags,” said Julian. “I’m going to put them under my Christmas tree when I’m done with this.”
“It’s just so much fun, actually, kind of like being with a kid who’s very grateful, seeing the fulfillment and enjoyment of him, and it kind of rubs off on you as well,” said Uva.
Festive decor and glittery accessories decked the halls, as Parkland School District students spread this season’s cheer with dozens of local first responders and volunteers to make sure every Christmas tree is surrounded by presents this year.
“Is it a gift for mom? Is it a gift for dad? Is it for grandma, grandpa, aunt uncle,” said Ryan Eldredge, Public Relations Manager at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom. “We have to set up the entire upstairs for a large-scale gift-wrapping operation.”
Checking off everyone on the nice and naughty list and checking it twice, inside Dorney Park’s White Water Tavern.
With every gift wrapped and every ribbon placed on top, the whole experience is one step closer for law enforcement and students to create a stronger bond.
“A lot of kids, when they see us, they might be a little nervous, scared. So, it’s nice just interacting with the community,” said Uva.
There was a meet-n-greet opportunity from Snoopy and jolly old St. Nick.
“It’s quite a flight [for Santa Claus],” Eldredge said.
The visits wrapped up this year’s program, as the elves sat back, relaxed and enjoyed a warm meal together.