FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                             

Patterson Firefighters Spread Holiday Cheer with 

Annual Operation Santa Claus Toy Drive

PATTERSON, CA – November 14, 2025 – The holiday spirit is officially on its way as the Patterson Fire Department, West Stanislaus Fire Protection District and Patterson Volunteer Firefighters Association announce the annual Operation Santa Claus Toy Drive dates. 

Beginning Sunday, December 7, through Sunday, December 21, Santa Claus will be cruising through Patterson neighborhoods, collecting toys and spreading holiday cheer. The community is encouraged to participate by donating new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages.

“For the past 24 years, Operation Santa Claus has been a staple in our community bringing joy to local families during the holidays,” expressed Captain Eddie Thompson, West Stanislaus Fire Protection District. “Its success is made possible by the generosity and participation of our community members, whose support has kept this wonderful community tradition alive.”

In addition to Santa’s neighborhood visits, community members can also drop off new, unwrapped toys at Fire Station 50/51, located at 344 W. Las Palmas Avenue. Donations are accepted now through Friday, December 20. 

“Operation Santa Claus has become a true reflection of the community’s dedication to helping local families,” expressed Jeff Frye, Fire Chief, Patterson Fire Department. “Year after year, Patterson comes together to ensure every child experiences the joy of the holidays.” 

Collection Routes and Schedule

• Evening of Sunday, Dec. 7
  • Neighborhoods in Downtown
• Evening of Friday, Dec. 12 
  • Neighborhoods South of Sperry, East of Ward & south of Las Palmas East of 2nd Street
• Evening of Saturday, Dec. 13
  • Neighborhoods East of 2nd Street/North of Las Palmas Ave
• Evening of Sunday, Dec.14
  • Neighborhoods South of Sperry, West of Ward
• Evening of Friday, Dec. 19
  • Walker Ranch Neighborhoods
• Evening of Saturday, Dec. 20
  • Heartland Ranch Neighborhoods
• Evening of Sunday, Dec. 21
  • Diablo Grande Community

All toys collected through Operation Santa Claus toy drive will be distributed to families right here in Patterson, bringing holiday cheer to children in the community. Thanks to the generosity of the community, this annual toy drive has been able to assist approximately 1,200 children each year.

For any further media inquiries, please contact Victoria Castro, Public Information Officer, at vcastro@pattersonca.gov or 209-895-8009.

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