For the 23rd year in a row, The Salvation Army and Sears joined forces to provide much-needed clothing and assorted goodies to underprivileged kids in the community.
Over 75 children arrived at Sears early on Tuesday, November 13, for the Sears Holiday Season Shopping Spree. Each child was given $100 to spend. The money was donated by The Salvation Army.
The Samohi Madrigal choir performed Christmas carols and seasonal songs while the children browsed the aisles, choosing their own shirts, pants, and more.
SMPD’s Lieutenant Alex Padilla was the event Chairperson. Said Padilla, “As a kid growing up in Santa Monica, my family and I benefited from the Salvation Army’s generosity. I can remember them dropping off toys during Christmas for our family to enjoy. Coming from a family of 12, this really meant a lot to us.
“Being a part of the Salvation Army’s Holiday Shopping Spree and seeing other community organizations come together for such a wonderful event confirms how fortunate Santa Monica is to have organizations with people who care about our children and who take time out of their busy day to bring a smile to a child. I can tell you that looking at every child that walked out of Sears with a smile from ear to ear made us all smile! Christmas in November…how sweet it is!”
