Operation Santa Claus [Op Santa] originated at the El Paso Post newspaper in 1929 and it was called “Handy Santa”. However, during the “Great Depression” it ceased to exist. It was revived in the late 1930’s by the “Good Will Boys Club” which is now the Boys and Girls Club. In 1957, Master Sergeant Philip Trout saw the critical community need, and he jump started the program at Fort Bliss. Due to
the military connection, he named the venture Operation Santa Claus. Sergeant Trout and a few of his friends did not know if the program would live or die but the 1957 results were so promising that in 1958 they had a stage show with ShowTime USA. The admission fee was simple – a toy. They were off to a flying start with 1,500! That same year, Operation Santa Claus also formed a partnership with the El Paso Boys and Girls Club to distribute toys in South El Paso. A 55-year old relationship we are happy to say continues to this day. From a very humble start in 1957 when only a few toys were collected to 2012 when we supplied several thousand needy military and civilian families with toys and bikes is truly an astonishing journey! For 55 years Operation Santa Claus has been successful due to the love, care, and concern for the needy by thousands of Soldiers and volunteers, foundations, grants, and donations of equipment, toys, and bikes. Their legacy is a 501(3)(c) nonprofit that operates 12 months a year and has grown into one of the largest toy charities in the Southwest with only one mission:
“TO PROVIDE EVERY NEEDY CHILD IN EL PASO WITH A CHRISTMAS TOY”
