As the holidays approach us, the Minier Christian Church held a special event called Christmas Cookies and Cocoa with Santa on Saturday, December 11th. The day was hosted by St. Jude Olympia to Peoria Run with the help of organizer, Stacey Boots. The Olympia High School National Honor Society students volunteered to staff the event. Families thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere and holiday activities.

Stations were set up throughout the church that included ornament making, coloring activities, reindeer food kits, cookies (donated by LJW Sweets) and cocoa, and professional photos with Santa, captured by Stevie Miller. Children were also encouraged to write a letter to Santa and put it in his special mailbox. They talked about what they wanted for Christmas, age, family, town, and if they were naughty or nice this year. The National Honor Society helped Santa write back to each and every child and they should be expecting a letter soon in the mail with a personalized message.

There were two sessions, one from 1-2:15 and another from 2:45-4. The break time allowed for another setup and restocking of crafts. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves were also able to rest for some time in between the two sessions.

This event was a nice fundraiser for St. Jude Olympia to Peoria Run and raised awareness for the annual charity event benefiting the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats, and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Since 2020, supporters have taken on the 45 miles to run from Olympia to Peoria raising thousands of dollars. The $10 participation fee for each child in this event went directly to this cause. For more information or how you, too, can donate, “like” the St. Jude Olympia to Peoria Run Facebook page.