Happy Santas Adjust Format to Continue Heartwarming Christmas Tradition
Community members step up to fulfill holiday wishes at Padua House
New Orleans, LA (December 24, 2020) – Despite the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative implications for the state’s hospitality industry, Happy Santas, sponsored by the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation, joined together to collect gifts and fulfill Christmas wish lists for residents at Padua House, a residential program of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans (CCANO) for those with profound disabilities and intellectual challenges. Instead of their traditional drop off atop the Drago’s Seafood Restaurant fire truck, they pivoted to fulfill clients’ digital wish lists via Amazon.
CCANO President and CEO Sister Marjorie Hebert said, “Despite a devastating year for the hospitality industry and many others in New Orleans, the folks with Happy Santas put their faith in action and stepped up to fulfill the Christmas wishes of our Padua House clients. We are eternally grateful for their selflessness this holiday season and hope that New Orleanians will continue the cycle of giving by supporting this important foundation.”
Happy Santas represent members of the local hospitality and business community. In the past, Happy Santas have come together dressed in full Santa costumes and other holiday flair armed with sacks of gifts for Padua House residents and clients. The Happy Santas traditionally gather to sing holiday songs with those at Padua House and bring tokens of thanks for the CCANO staff who provide loving care and help make Padua a special place.
“It was important for us to still find a way to give back despite the Happy Santas not being able to physically celebrate the holidays with the clients, residents and staff at Padua House. Fortunately, we have plenty of great memories from years past that inspired us to continue this tradition in a safe and efficient way,” said Louisiana Hospitality Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Kelley.
Happy Santas was founded by the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation and has grown into a program supported by community leaders representing many industries including hospitality industry executives, entrepreneurs, business owners and more to fulfill the needs of Padua. Those interested in supporting the Happy Santas program can click here.
Padua House is a residential program and licensed Intermediate Care Facility for those from the ages of birth to 35 who are medically fragile. Through a partnership with Children’s Hospital and other specialty clinics and hospitals, Padua House ensures that all residents have quality, individualized care based on their specific needs. Happy Santas is committed to providing cheer during the holiday season to the residents and staff.