MADERA, Calif. – Dozens of first responders escorted Santa Claus to Valley Children’s Hospital on Tuesday, continuing a beloved holiday tradition that has brought cheer to young patients for more than four decades.
The annual procession, which began more than 40 years ago when Fresno Police motorcycle officers first visited children during the holidays, has since grown into a multi‑agency effort involving law enforcement and fire personnel from across the region.
“As firefighters, paramedics and law enforcement officers, we often see a lot of sadness and tragedy, so anytime we get a chance like this to interact with kids and see smiles on their faces is very moving,” said Josh Sellers, public information officer for the Fresno Fire Department. “It’s good food for your soul.”
This year’s escort included units from the Fresno Fire Department, Fresno Police Department, Madera County Sheriff’s Office, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Clovis Fire Department, CAL FIRE, Selma Fire Department and Madera Police Department.
“Madera County is so fortunate to have such an amazing hospital full of such amazing employees that truly care about our community and the kids here,” said Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue.
Flashing lights filled the road leading to the hospital as the convoy delivered Santa to the front entrance, where he greeted patients and families.
Once inside, Santa and first responders went room to room to deliver toys, take pictures and wish patients a merry Christmas.
“The kids absolutely light up our day. To see the smiles on their faces, it lights up our souls, and we’re truly lucky to have the opportunity,” Sheriff Pogue said.
Toys for the visit were donated by Target, the Fresno Police and Fire Chaplaincy, the Fresno Fire Chief’s Foundation and Gameday Men’s Health.
“Being able to witness the spectacle that this is, it’s really amazing,” said Bryan Estrada, Child Life coordinator with Valley Children’s. “Our patients and families just light up, and you create some incredible experiences that they get to take with them as memories.”
Santa visited close to 70 patients, with dozens of others receiving toys and season’s greetings from the first responders. The annual event is one of the hospital’s longest-running community traditions.
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