Cove Blue Santa applications open Nov. 15
By LYNETTE SOWELL
Cove Leader-Press
The Cove Blue Santa program will begin accepting applications on Nov. 15 to help local families with Christmas gifts for their children.
This irogram is open to children ages 15 and under in Copperas Cove and Pidcoke.
The office for Cove Blue Santa is located at 304 Cove Terrace Shopping Center, between Schlotzky’s and 5 Ole Heifers.
Applicants must come in person and must be the parent or guardian of the child. They must also bring a photo ID to show who is filling out the application.
They must bring one document showing proof of residency in either Copperas Cove or Pidcoke area. This can include a bill in the applicant’s name, copy of current lease (within one year), Medicaid or SNAP award/authorization letter with address. Electronic documents are accepted.
Proof of relationship to the child must be provided, such as above-mentioned Medicaid or SNAP document, guardianship or other court document, or report card with address. Note: a birth certificate or social security card are not accepted, as they do not show whom the child lives with or who is the adult responsible for the child.
The application dates and times are as follows:
Friday, Nov. 15, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 6-8 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 6-8 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 6-8 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 6-8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 6-8 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 6-8 p.m.
Package pickup: Monday, Dec. 16, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 5-7 p.m.
Cove Blue Santa organizers ask that families come with ideas of things their kids would like to receive, and to keep in mind that Cove Blue Santa takes care of about 500-plus children every year, so come with ideas for gifts items that cost less than $30.
Boxes are also available for businesses wishing to place one at their location to collect gift donations.
Cove Blue Santa is run by volunteers, who connect with local businesses to collect toys for children, and they also divide up the toys donated for children in need.
Items that are welcomed for donation include new, unwrapped toys, games, puzzles, books and more for children aged 15 and under.
For more information, contact Cove Blue Santa at covebluesanta@gmail.com or visit their social media page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.hp?id=100064778015906.
In 2023, Cove Blue Santa assisted 295 families, with a total of 718 children.