Santa’s Helpers Bring Holiday Cheer to Texas Children’s Hospital

There is no sign of Santa Claus just yet, but some of his special "elves" already are busy at work at Texas Children’s Hospital.

As the holiday season jumps into full swing, The Auxiliary to Texas Children’s Hospital, the hospital’s volunteer organization, prepares for its busiest time of year.

"With help from the community, The Auxiliary brings Christmas to Texas Children’s Hospital," said Pat Dolan, director of Volunteer Services. "The Auxiliary’s volunteers escort special visitors to patient rooms, accept new toys donated for patients and ensure each child has a gift to open during the holidays."

To help prepare the patients’ presents for Santa to deliver, Auxiliary members have created a makeshift "North Pole" in the Auxiliary’s boardroom. Dolls, trucks, books, hand-held electronic games and more goodies line tables in the room where age- and gender-appropriate gift bags are assembled. WATCH Santa, the Auxiliary’s Santa Claus, along with his special "elves," will deliver presents Dec. 20.

"To see a child’s eyes light up as he or she sees Santa makes our work all worthwhile," said Emily Nolte, a junior volunteer.

Since before the hospital opened its doors in 1954, members of The Auxiliary at Texas Children’s have volunteered their time to help patients and families. When the organization was established, only women were members and most were stay-at-home mothers.

Today, The Auxiliary at Texas Children’s has more than 900 members, both women and men, who range in age from 15 to 92.

"Our patients are fortunate to be served by young professionals, teens, moms and dads, as well as grandparents, all of whom are united by a single goal to make the hospital experience more pleasant for patients," said Drucie Cole, Auxiliary president.

Although WATCH Santa will be visiting the hospital only on Dec. 20, his "elves" will continue giving through Christmas Day. Volunteers prepare extra gift bags for children who are admitted to the hospital Dec. 20 through 25.

"It’s difficult for a child to be admitted during the holidays," said Cyndy Matthews, an Auxiliary member. "We want to make sure patients knows that Santa will find them wherever they go."

The Auxiliary purchases toys with money raised primarily through its Toy & Gift Shop sales. In addition, the Auxiliary uses money from some cash donations made by individuals and groups such as the FBI staff. Many new toys are donated directly by families, clubs and area businesses.

For more information about The Auxiliary to Texas Children’s Hospital, call (832) 824-2257.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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