Santa’s visit to Woods Services’ Middletown Township campus Wednesday evening brought a little cheer to the campus.
The nonprofit that serves children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral issues, and brain trauma patients held their Christmas tree lighting in-person with physical distancing and also virtually through an online stream. The event welcomed Santa and his elves to Woods Services.
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Following the evening ceremony, Santa and his helpers delivered a plush animal to each resident. The gifts were from PetSmart in Newtown, where customers were able to purchase and donate one of seven plush animals, including hedgehogs and llamas.
“The expression of love, generosity and support from the community is especially heartfelt this year and we are extremely grateful,” said Tine Hansen-Turton, Woods Services’ president and CEO.
Credit: Submitted
For this holiday season, Woods Services created a series of winter wonderland experiences. Decorations have been placed around the campus and at the on-campus barnyard and corral, which were added in spring and feature horses, mini-alpacas, potbellied pigs, goats, ducks, and chickens.
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The Wednesday lighting also kicked off the launch of a fundraising campaign that aims to build an accessible boardwalk and treehouse.
Santa is expected to return to the campus on Christmas Eve to deliver 1,000 gifts from the residents’ wish lists. The gifts were donated by members of the community.
