1939 N.E. Loop 410 Suite 300

San Antonio, TExas, Texas 78217

210.822.4428

THE BLUE SANTA PROGRAM began in San Antonio in 1976 when officers from the Community Relations Unit adopted needy families at Christmas time. The officers provided these families with groceries for Christmas dinner and presents for their children. These police officers, wearing their blue uniforms, became known as "Blue Santas".

In 1986 the Blue Santa Program became an official project of SAPD. This program works by officers from throughout the city identifying needy families in their patrol districts. The officers submit this information to Community Services officers for processing. Community Services officers act as a collecting point for donations of money, food and toys. The cash donations are used to purchase additional toys and food items that may be needed.

This year, SAPD officers and volunteers will assemble the gifts, wrap and label them, and make sure the appropriate gift is delivered to each child on the Blue Santa list. Officers who have submitted nominations of needy children deliver the packages to the families. Whenever possible, an officer dressed in the "Blue Santa" costume accompanies the police officers on their deliveries.

The success of the Blue Santa Program depends on the generous contributions from local businesses, civic organizations, and countless San Antonio residents.