LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — The Hive Taphouse inside Mohegan Pennsylvania has transformed into Santa's hangout spot, filled with toys that will soon go home to kids in the greater Pittston area.
"We have learned first-hand the great need here in our community. The Greater Pittston Santa Squad, believe it or not, helps 1,600 children's wishes be fulfilled this holiday season," said Jim Brogna with the Wyoming Valley Run.
"I thought, 'Oh, my gosh!' I didn't even know there were 1,600 kids in need, so for us to be able to do something to directly make a difference right here in our community, right up the street, is really important," said Jennifer Ducharme, director of events at Mohegan Pennsylvania.
Volunteers with the Wyoming Valley Run say they have charity at heart. In September, the 10-mile race raised money for five area charities. Now, they're expanding.
This Saturday at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Plains Township, people can lace up their shoes for a few laps around the horse racing track for the inaugural Santa Dash.
"You can run on the track—whether you want to run one lap or ten laps—in an hour. I think what is exciting for runners is that it's a flat course, and you never get to run on the track. It's a different experience, and we're expecting people to dress up in their best costumes," said Brogna.
The cost to participate is one new unwrapped toy.
"After people go out and do their laps on the track, they will come back here for the Santa Summit where we'll get everyone in costume, have a costume contest, have a happy hour, drink specials, food," said Ducharme.
Organizers say, in the spirit of the holiday season, they hope people will come out to celebrate the generosity of the Wyoming Valley.
"Even if you don't want to run, you just want to walk the track or just bring a toy to the Santa Summit, it's going to be a great celebration," said Brogna.
You can find event details HERE.