Santa Claus came to town Sunday morning for a very worthy cause. He made his appearance as a special visitor at the Hearts for Hope Breakfast with Santa fundraiser at Ridge Country Club, 10522 S. California Ave., Chicago.
“I bring my grandkids to this event every year,” said Linda Skerrett-Kraig, of LaGrange. “We absolutely love it.”
Hearts for Hope is a volunteer group of grateful parents and community members who support the mission of Advocate Children’s Hospital and work to raise funds and awareness through events and activities that benefit the hospital in Oak Lawn.
Sunday’s event with Santa and his helpers had two seatings that featured a full breakfast buffet for $30 per adult and $22 per child. Proceeds from the annual event benefit the young patients and families served by the children’s hospital. Last year, nearly $18,000 was raised to support Hearts for Hope programs and initiatives such as patient parties, and organizers were expecting no less this year.
The event usually draws about 200-plus at each seating, but last year had a record of nearly 270 at each.
“This Breakfast with Santa is becoming a tradition for families in the local community and instills in children the idea of giving back to those less fortunate during the holiday season,” said Julie Nakis, an Advocate spokeswoman.
“We make this event an annual holiday tradition,” Leyla Dreher, of Chicago, said. “It is a great way to support the local community.”
“This is my family’s first time here and we had a really nice time,” Bernie Dalcamo, of Chicago, said. “We are planning on coming back again next year.”
In the spirit of giving, guests were asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the children at Advocate Children’s Hospital to be given to them during the holiday season.
Another highlight was Orland Park award-winning author Nancy Gee making her book, “The Secret Drawer,” come to life as she read it aloud to children and parents. As an early Christmas present, every child in attendance received a signed copy of the book.
“Nancy graciously volunteered her time to read,” Nakis said. “The young kids will love hearing the adventurous story.”
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Children also could take part in storytelling, raffles and arts and crafts. Open Heart magicians graced the scene as well, along with caricature artists, and families had an opportunity for photos to be taken and Christmas lists to be shared with Santa Claus.
Kelly White is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.