Hays County’s Brown Santa program is looking for elves to assist with its annual drive to bring food and toys to needy local families. Last year the program served more than 600 families and although the need hasn’t diminished, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced some operational changes. One is the cancelation of some fundraising events, which has further strained Brown Santa finances.
Brown Santa will be accepting new toys for children up to the age of 16. Any toy that is already gift-wrapped needs to have a tag that identifies the toy, age group, and if it is for a male or female.
Unwrapped toys will be accepted through Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. at the following locations: (Wrapped toys will be accepted though Dec 14.)
San Marcos: Hays County Sheriff’s Office (1307 Uhland Road)
Kyle: Pct 2 Justice of the Peace Beth Smith (5458 FM 2770)
Buda: Pct 5 Justice of the Peace Scott Cary (500 Jack C. Hays Trail)
Pct 5 Justice of the Peace Scott
San Marcos: Buda: Wimberley: Dripp
Pct 2 Justice of the Peace Beth Smith (5458 FM 2770)
Buda: Pct 3 Justice of the Peace Andy Cable (200 Stillwater Rd Ste 104) Pct 4 Hays
Alternatively, Toys can also be picked up from the residence or business of donors if convenient. Money contributions in the form of a check or money order made payable to "Hays County Brown Santa" can be mailed to:
Hays County Brown Santa P.O. Box 1475
San Marcos, TX 78667
Payments can also be made on Venmo or the Square. Please go to the Hays County Brown Santa Facebook page to make the donation on the site.
All toys will be wrapped on Decfrom 9a.m. to noon and on Dec.14 & 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. Children are welcome to help out. Social distancing and masks will be required.
This year, families seeking assistance will need to pick up their food and toys on a designated day, time and location. When signing up, they will be given that information. In the past, deputies and helpers delivered the toys and food directly to the family’s homes.
Those interested in assisting in the Brown Santa program or making a cash donation may contact Lt. Dennis Gutierrez at 512-393-7877. Hays County Brown Santa would like to wish the everyone in Hays County a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
