Santa Claus and YPD elves visit children in local hospital on Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve got off to a very merry start for some children at a local hospital.

Saturday morning Santa Claus, with some help from his elves over at the Yuma Police Department, spread holiday cheer by visiting children at the Yuma Regional Medical Center.

“Today Santa is taking a few minutes from his schedule to come and see the children that are in the hospital on Christmas Eve,” explains Santa Claus. “With the help of the Yuma Police Department who’s helped arrange this. They brought me in just for this. I have to get to get back to the North Pole and get started for tonight.”

Santa and his helpers went door to door to all rooms occupied by children. They visited the Emergency Department, waiting room, and took a trip to the NICU where newborns were held by Santa Claus for the very first time.

This is the 21st year that Santa and his YPD elves visit the hospital to give out stockings stuffed with toys, blankets, coloring books, and other treats.

“We’ve been doing this for about 21 years now,” states Yuma Police Sergeant Lori Franklin. “The kids love it, the staff loves it, and it’s just bringing a little Christmas cheer on a day when they’re just not feeling very well.”

Officers say that this event is a community effort and every year they are very grateful to receive toy and monetary donations from local residents.

If you are interested in contributing, you can contact the Yuma Police Department at (928) 373-4700.