Cottam Rotary connects local kids to Santa

by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative

There was what seemed to be a never-ending line-up that stretched all the way from inside the pavilion at Cottam Rotary Park to the sidewalk on Friday night, as local youths and their families waited patiently for a chance to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus at their annual free holiday visit.

  “This is the biggest turnout anyone can remember,” Cottam Rotary President, Mike Olajos, said, watching families line-up to meet – and get a picture with – Santa, who also had a gift to share with each young visitor.

  Every year, the Rotary Club of Cottam hosts the Visit with Santa event as the Christmas season kicks-off as a way to connect local kids to Jolly Old St. Nicholas. It is a special night where local youths can relay their Christmas wishes.

  It is also a great way for those in the community to check-out the inventory available as part of the service club’s annual Christmas Tree Sale. It is Cottam Rotary’s biggest fundraiser of the year, helping its members sponsor youth activities, such as Girl Guides, Scouts, Cottam Hoops basketball, and minor soccer and baseball.  

  In the spirit of giving, families were urged to drop-off a non-perishable food donation to the Essex Area Food Bank, and members of the Cottam Rotary Club were impressed with the haul they were able to collect to help support local families facing economic hardships.    

  Olajos was grateful for the community support, the Cottam Fire Department for safely bringing Santa to the event on time and further providing Firetruck tours to the young visitors, and those who dressed in inflatable Christmas-themed costumes to entertain the youths while they waited patiently in line for their turn to visit Santa. He also expressed appreciation to Grounded Café, Auntie Aldoo's Kitchen, and Henry Furtado Catering & Bakery for providing the hot chocolate and cookies for the event.

  Seeing everyone onsite enjoying the festivities was great to see, Olajos said, adding he was happy to do something so important for the community.  

  Cottam Rotary could always use volunteers and new members. Those interested are urged to reach out to the club via its social media channels to learn more.