Page 16 • December 10, 2024 — January 14, 2025• TRENTON TIMES
Credit union brings holiday cheer with annual Santa photo event BY ASHLEI DANG For over 40 years, the Downriver Community Federal Credit Union has been spreading holiday joy with its beloved Santa Photo Event, featuring the same jolly Santa who has now delighted generations of families. The event, which was completely free and open to both credit union members and non-members, provided a heartwarming holiday experience. Children had the opportunity to meet Santa, share their Christmas wish lists, and receive a beautiful printed photo of their visit in a festive holiday photo mount. Whether they’ve been naughty or nice, the children also received a gift bag filled with goodies such as jumbo coloring books, crayons, and candy canes courtesy of the credit union. This year’s event had an extra dose of holiday magic: DCFCU’s team went above and beyond by purchasing 175 toys to distribute during the event. Samantha Rakestraw, Marketing Specialist and the organizer of this year’s festivities, shared the team’s experience shopping for the toys: “We received a lot of strange looks from shoppers as we navigated the aisles with our three carts overflowing with toys. Even the cashier, when he found out what we were doing, brought his family out to see Santa!” After their visit with Santa, children got to choose a special toy from Santa’s sack in addition to their gift bag, making the moment even more memorable. Parents weren’t left out of the festivities either. Each received a complimentary 2025 Downriver Community Calendar, featuring stunning local scenes from the Downriver area as well as Wayne and Monroe counties. Held during the first week of December, the event drew over 150 children over two days this year. “As part of Downriver Credit Union’s commitment to supporting our community, it’s a joy to see the smiles on the faces of children as they visit Santa and receive toys,” said Robert LaPalme, President and CEO of Downriver Credit Union. “Giving back during the holiday season is one of the most rewarding aspects of what we do here.” With decades of tradition and a mission to give back, the Santa Photo Event continues to be a cherished holiday highlight for families across Downriver, spreading joy and holiday spirit to all.