Windsor Police and Santa Visit Regional Children’s Centre

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The Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Regional Children’s Centre (RCC) received a special visit this morning from Windsor Police Services, Santa Claus, and Paw Patrol.

Children aged six to twelve were treated to a story read by Santa followed by the chance to sit on his lap and receive a brand new stuffed animal.

“We’re always looking for ways to give back, and we had an awesome sponsor in Petsmart, so it was an excellent opportunity for us,” says Windsor Police Chief Albert Frederick. “Our connection with the children has always been strong, and we thought that the Regional Children’s Centre would be a great fit for us.“

When approached about the event, the RCC was very excited to have Windsor Police come in.

“This gives the kids an opportunity to connect with the police on a completely different level,” says Reneé Gilliam, manager of the intensive treatment services program at RCC. “Some may have had some negative experiences, and so this is positive, it’s fun, it gives a whole sense of Christmas cheer for the kids.”

In addition to the positive experience with the police, Santa and the members of The Paw Patrol were a huge hit with the kids as well.

“The smiling faces, and the laughs, and the connection. They were sitting so patiently, waiting to see Santa and so excited. They will remember this for a very long time,” says Gilliam.

“They’re so patient with each other and so cordial to one another,” says Frederick, pleased by the reactions and behaviour of the kids. “Hoping that another child gets the gift that they want, it’s just a wonderful environment created by the kids.”

“It will be a very nice memory,” says Gilliam.“Tremendous thank yous to the police department for initiating this.“