By Daily Press staff
The Santa Monica Elks made sure a group of needy kids got their fill of Christmas cheer.
The Elks hosted a Christmas party for 176 underprivileged children earlier this month. Santa Claus and two of his elves were on hand to help and each child received a Christmas stocking and a Beanie Buddy from Santa’s elves. Each stocking contained an apple, an orange, peanuts, candy. A clown was on hand to make everyone laugh. The kids sat on Santa’s lap and gave him their Christmas wishes. They were given a wrapped gift that was appropriate for a boy or girl of their age. Ice cream cones also were given out as an extra treat.
Invitations were given to the elementary schools and to the Santa Monica Boys and Girls Club, who distributed them to underprivileged children. The $3,000 for the entertainment and gifts came from donations from the individual members.
The Christmas tree in the lobby shows the names of the individual donors, including Art Nabeour, who has donated the Beanie Buddies for the last six years. The Santa Monica Elks have been holding the event for more than 50 years. Restoration Commission still in ‘Bloom’
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on December 23, 2005. Read the original PDF.