PITTSTON, Pa. — This gymnasium in Pittston looks more like the North Pole these days, as the Pittston Santa Squad is in full swing this holiday season.
"It's more than a workshop; it's a labor of love building. Everything that we do for all the kids, all the families that come in. It's overwhelming," said Gary Worosilla, the Vice-President of the Pittston Santa Squad.
For the 7th year, they're giving Santa a major helping hand. Inside these red bags are the gifts for more than 1,500 kids throughout Luzerne County. Each one will get exactly what they wish.
"In some cases, we actually have to read the Santa letters, pick out the items buried within the letters, and find out exactly what the child is hoping Santa brings them Christmas morning," he added.
Families are given exactly what they need to make holiday magic, right down to the wrapping paper.
"If they ask for a Mario comforter, they're not just getting a red comforter. They're getting a Mario-kart comforter. So, it's nice knowing that they're getting what they asked to get. At that age, I think it's important to, I don't want to say get what they want but feel heard and understood," added Worosilla.
It's no easy feat to make it all happen. The Santa Squad started working back in April, purchasing and assembling more than 100 bikes to be given out to kids. But, it's not just these elves doing all the work, it's also the help of the community that makes it all possible to fill Santa's sleigh.
"Individuals sponsoring one or two kids, to businesses taking on 10, 20, 30. We even had a company take on 70 kids this year. So we couldn't do it without the community, at every level," he said.
Showing that the magic of Christmas isn't just from the big man in red.
"Santa never gets old. It's stressful at times, but for the most part, it's fun. The real Santa, he's out there, you know. So, we feel like he does. It's all about the kids," said Worosilla.
The non-profit is still taking loose toy donations at their headquarters in Pittston and monetary donations through Venmo. For more information, visit the Greater Pittston Santa Squad's Facebook page.
The group also has an Amazon Wishlist to help fulfill their needs for the holiday season.