Santa at Smith Lake

Marietta, a Program Partner from Smith Lake, took the reins to organize her first SWIRC Santa Stop.

Smith Lake is a community located in the eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, approximately 45 minutes west of Gallup, NM.

The excited children brought their teachers, grandparents, or volunteers to this event.

Their teacher was grateful for this Santa Stop, as it was likely the only chance for these children to see him. Another Santa visit in a neighboring town was cancelled due to an electrical blackout caused by inclement weather.

The children came in visibly eager to open their stockings, which were filled with age-appropriate gifts such as socks, gloves, coloring and activity books, DVDs and/or VHS tapes, and a few small toys. Books were also included in the stockings to encourage the children to spend time reading.

Marietta teamed up with Anita, another Program Partner, and two health professionals to bring health education to the captive audience of adults — while the kids were occupied with Santa.

The purpose of the SWIRC Program's Christmas service is to help spread holiday cheer. By the looks on the children's faces, this was accomplished!

Thank you for your support!