Local motorcycle group donates Christmas gifts for children at Gray House.
SPRINGFIELD — Santa rode in on a fire truck Sunday to greet children at the Gray House on Sheldon Street.
Santa and the gifts were provided by the Iron Horse Motorcycle Riders, a group based out of West Springfield.
Rider Jeff Callahan started donating gifts to the Gray House many years ago with his children and then a hockey team he coached. Ten years ago the Iron Horse Motorcycle Riders took on the challenge of fundraising and getting the gifts for about 40 children.
"We are so grateful to them for doing this. The kids are excited about the visit and the families are very thankful," said Dena Calvanese, executive director of the Gray House.
Most of the children are part of the Gray House's Kids' Club, an after-school and summer program, which serves children in grades 2-5.
Calvanese said some of the children's siblings also participated in the event.
Bernice and Jennifer Cruz, 6 and 10, were ecstatic to meet Santa.
"I feel happy and excited," said Jennifer.
"I want to open my present right now," said Bernice.
Both girls waited patiently while all of the children got their gifts before tearing off the wrapping paper.
"It's great to see the look on their faces," Callahan said. He said the riders hold two fundraisers throughout the year to raise the money necessary for buying gifts, the batteries that go in the toys and the wrapping paper. Riders wrap the gifts themselves.
Rider Rich Avezzie said the group likes to give back to the community. They also hope to donate to a local organization associated with the Wounded Warrior Project.
"Every year it's such a great event. The Iron Horse folks put their heart into doing it and it truly represents the spirit of Christmas," Calvanese said.