SDS is excited to be participating in the UT holiday assistance program, Orange Santa, again this year! Orange Santa began in 1994 as a program designed to foster a more caring university environment by providing help for members of the university community in need during the holiday season. In December 2017, Orange Santa served 268 families, including 787 children.
We will be collecting toys for Orange Santa through December 06, 2018 in GDC 7.509 and caroling at songs of the season on December 7 at noon right in front of the Main Building.
Kristin Harvey, who introduced Orange Santa to SDS, spoke to SDS about the program and why she enjoys this donation event. We would like to thank Kristin for all she does every year to bring Orange Santa to life at SDS!
Hi Kristin, you introduced SDS to Orange Santa, why do you believe it is important to participate in this university event?
I think it is important to take care of our UT family. Orange Santa ensures that everyone who is a part of the university (faculty, staff, and students) has the ability to give their children the magical holiday they deserve. Orange Santa is just one small way that we can give back to everyone that helps make UT a special place to work.
What is Orange Santa and how can I help?
Orange Santa is a toy drive which supports anyone who is affiliated with UT as a staff, faculty, or student with children under 17. It relies on donations from all around campus to make it a success. In December 2017, Orange Santa served 268 families, including 787 children. The Orange Santa Holiday Store provides an opportunity for participating families to "shop" for gifts and toys for children in their immediate family. The store is stocked with items contributed through our donations.
What kind of gifts can/cannot be donated?
There is a full list of ideas posted in the mail room (I can email it to you if you want it). But, any gift that a child ages 0-17 would like is accepted! You can give stuffed toys, clothing, games, music, etc. They also accept gift cards of at least $10 and monetary donations are accepted online (https://orangesanta.utexas.edu/donations) and are tax deductible!
There’s Caroling? With Cocoa?
YES! At the end of Orange Santa, the collection wraps up at the Tower with Songs of the Season. Each year people gather on the steps of the main tower to sing Christmas carols, drink FREE cocoa, and meet Orange Santa himself!!!
What’s your favorite memory of SDS and Orange Santa?
I always love the caroling, but my favorite thing is seeing the full box of toys donated by the department each year!!!
