Santa Set to Put Smiles on Sick Kids' Faces

BRADENTON, FL – Santa Claus is a busy guy this time of year. Even so, the jolly old elf has announced plans to make a special stop at the Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department later this week.

Santa’s on a mission, you see. He’s coming to town to take part in the 31st annual Flight to the North Pole. The annual event enables terminally ill children to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus ahead of the holidays.

“This is a memorable event not only for the children, but also for their families and everyone involved,” Manatee County Sheriff’s W. Brad Steube explained.

The foundation that backs the “flight” was created in 1985 by several Eastern Airlines flight attendants. This year, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department, local businesses and volunteers have joined the effort to help children enjoy holiday cheer.

Children who are invited to meet Santa this year will be entertained by Shrine clowns. Home Depot and its employees also plan to offer wood crafts while a private school’s chorus will sing holiday songs. McDonald’s intends to donate Happy Meals for the kids while they wait for Santa to arrive. Their parents will be treated to lunch by Jimmy Johns, Texas Roadhouse, Firehouse Subs, Sonny’s and Gio’s, Steube said.

Once Santa arrives, kids will be able to meet with him and Mrs. Claus to share their wish lists. They'll also receive bags filled with presents, Steube said.

This year’s flight is set to take place Dec. 8. The event is not open to the public, but donations to offset costs are appreciated, Steube said. Monetary contributions can be mailed to Flight to the North Pole, 600 301 Blvd. W., Suite 202, Bradenton 34205.

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