“Ho, Ho, Ho!” echoed through the halls of Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital as Santa and the Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) brought festive cheer to young patients. Dressed in full uniform, Long Beach firefighters took the place of Santa’s elves and escorted Santa room by room to deliver a surprise bedside visit and a special gift to the children they will never forget. Santa, as jolly as ever during this cherished 27-year tradition, brought smiles and laughter and heard plenty of wish lists from the excited children.
In partnership with the Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program, the firefighters spent their morning assembling special gift bags for patients, which included puzzles, coloring books, small toy Dalmatians, and an LBFD shirt. Accompanied by Santa, the firefighters delivered the gifts to patients, spreading smiles and unforgettable memories. For children in isolation, Santa and the firefighters cheerfully waved from doorways, ensuring every child felt the holiday spirit.
“This is an event we look forward to every year,” says Jake Heflin, public information officer, Long Beach Fire Department. “Spending time with the kids and their families is incredibly meaningful, and being able to bring smiles and laughter during the holidays is something we’re honored to do.”
The hospital was filled with excitement as children lit up at the sight of Santa and his firefighter entourage. The surprised look on children’s faces when Santa came through the units was undeniable, and it warmed the hearts of parents and the care team, too. Bringing joy to patients who are going through treatment helps lighten the atmosphere of being hospitalized during the holidays.
“These moments make a big difference for our patients and their families,” says Rita Goshert, director, Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “Santa’s visit and the generosity of the Long Beach Fire Department bring joy and a sense of normalcy to children who are spending the holidays in the hospital.”
This visit is part of the LBFD Kids program, a long-standing initiative created by Captain David Holden and Deputy Chief Mike Garcia in 1998. Comprised of LBFD members dedicated to community service, the program focuses on enhancing the lives and well-being of children at Miller Children’s & Women’s during the holidays.
Santa’s visit was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating positive and uplifting experiences for young patients. The Child Life Program at Miller Children’s & Women’s is committed to creating a kid-friendly environment at the hospital, helping patients and their families feel comforted and cared for during challenging times.
