Project Santa Claus
Project Santa Claus was inspired and established by students of
the UCLA/Drew Chapter of SNMA fifteen years ago to provide pediatric patients
of the King/Drew Medical Center and children of the surrounding Watts/Compton community
of South Central Los Angeles with a Christmas celebration. This yearly event is
our way of giving back to our community in hopes of promoting peace, unity, and
happiness. This year we provided food, entertainment, creative activities, and
gifts to over 600 children and their families. We were also able to provide
Diabetes and Hypertension screening, Free
Immunizations administered by the Ralphs Kids
Immunization Program, and health information provided by many community health
organizations. The success of Project Santa Claus relied on the service of over
120 volunteers from the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science,
UCLA School of Medicine, Partnership for Progress, and the surrounding
community; donations of major corporations and individual supporters; celebrity
participation; and coverage from the media. Project Santa Claus was a
tremendous success this year and we look forward to continuing our commitment
to serving our community in the years to come.