Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus

For the young, Santa Claus is the big jolly old elf with red cheeks and nose, long white beard and dressed in red velvet with snow white trim.  He is the icon of hope during the holiday season.  Hope, that stockings will be overflowing with candy canes and cookies. Hope, that a shiny new bicycle and brightly wrapped toys surround the tree.

For some children (all too many, in fact), the hope will be that a new pair of socks will be found laying beneath the tree. Hope, that a warm coat will be hung by the door.  Hope, that a warm meal will be found on the table on Christmas day.  While these boys and girls picture Santa as a big white bearded elf dressed in red, their parents know he is slightly shorter, clean shaven, and prefers beige over red.  And, goes by the name of Jason, Paul, Justin, Mark, Austin…

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. And, he is not just one man.  But, a group of young men who call themselves The Boy Scouts of America.

The food and clothing drives conducted by the Boy Scouts are an important part of the holiday season for many.  The food drives bring nutritious meals to tables that would otherwise be bare. The clothing drives bring warm clothes to many that would otherwise have to endure the cold winter months without.  In one South Eastern Michigan community, the area troops work with local community centers in providing assistance to low-income families.  The boys volunteer their time in collecting food and clothing, and work at sorting and stocking donated items at the centers.

While many families require assistance throughout the year, the added assistance the Boy Scouts provide during the holiday season help to brighten Christmas day for many children.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.  He just happens to be wearing a baseball cap and size 9 sneaker.