Santa Run benefits Arlington food bank

The Arlington Fire Department recently completed the annual Santa Run Food Drive. For almost 30 years, off-duty fire department staff escorts Santa on a 10-night tour of Arlington neighborhoods spreading holiday cheer. With Christmas music playing, a decorated fire engine and Santa on a lighted rolling sleigh, staff collected 17,066 pounds of food and $3,007 for the Arlington Food Bank. A truly amazing event the community loves and looks forward to. Special thanks to the Arlington Fire Department staff, IAFF Local #3728 – Arlington Firefighters, the Rotary Club of Arlington and various city of Arlington staff.

“In a year compromised in so many ways by the Coronavirus, we ended strong with our biggest year ever,” Chief Dave Kraski said, "We appreciate everyone's help. This event is truly amazing."

"The demand on our food supply has increased significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while regular food donations have decreased with most events and businesses closed this past year. The Arlington Food Bank is extremely grateful for the extraordinary efforts of the Arlington Fire Department for adapting this year’s Santa Run making it a contact-free, safe activity for the community whose generosity continues to help us ensure no one in our neighborhoods go hungry, especially this holiday season. From all of us at the food bank, we thank you!" said Carla Gastineau, executive director of the Arlington Community Food Bank.