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Hillside’s Special Santa program celebrates 50 years
Hillside’s Special Santa program celebrates 50 years
Listen to this articleA long-standing community tradition is marking a major milestone this holiday season. Hillside has launched the 50th year of its Special Santa program, the agency’s signature toy-and-gift drive supporting children and families across the regions it serves.
KeyBank has returned for the fifth consecutive year as presenting sponsor.
Since its inception in 1975, Special Santa has provided holiday gifts to thousands of children who might not otherwise receive them. Hillside President and CEO Maria Cristalli said the program’s longevity is a testament to community collaboration and donor generosity.
“Since the program was launched in 1975, Special Santa has brightened the holidays for countless thousands of children served by Hillside — many of whom might not otherwise receive any gifts at all this year,” Cristalli said. “Year after year, deeply generous donations and our dedicated employees have come together in a shared act of community kindness. We’re excited to kick off the 50th season of this important tradition.”
Last year alone, community contributions enabled the distribution of nearly 8,000 gifts to more than 3,500 children and families. Hillside expects similar engagement for the 2025 campaign, which runs through Dec. 12.
For KeyBank, the partnership aligns with its broader strategic focus on supporting underserved communities. Vince Lecce, KeyBank’s Rochester market president, said the program continues to resonate with employees, clients and local families.
“Special Santa holds a truly special place in our community, and we’re honored to support this incredible program for the fifth year in a row,” Lecce said. “Each year, I become more inspired by the positive impact this program has on families and youth in our community. The holidays can be a tough time both financially and emotionally for families that are struggling, and I’ve had the privilege to see the difference that Hillside has made through their service and support.”
This year, community members and corporate partners can participate in several ways, including making online monetary donations, hosting gift-giving events or dropping off new, unwrapped toys at dozens of KeyBank locations and partner sites across Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo and the Southern Tier. Details and lists of in-demand gifts are available here.
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