Volunteers help San Marcos Police Department’s Blue Santa

Volunteers gathered Tuesday night to help bag gifts for families in need through the San Marcos Police Department's Blue Santa. 

Approximately 100 volunteers helped put together bags of gifts for nearly 205 families, according to SMPD Community Services Corporal Laray Taylor. 

Juan Martinez (left) hands gifts to Blue Santa volunteer Juan Acosta(right). Approximately 100 people helped volunteer Tuesday to fill bags for 205 families in need.

Established in 1972, the SMPD’s Blue Santa program has provided toys to local children who might not otherwise have gifts for the holidays.

Each year, between 70 and 130 volunteers attend SMPD’s Blue Santa gift-wrapping events. Each event is a good opportunity to celebrate holiday togetherness with friends, neighbors, local businesses and organizations.