SWAMPSCOTT – The Swampscott Housing Authority is hoping to bring holiday joy to its residents, especially to the 60 children living in public housing. With the help of the Swampscott Police Department, Swampscott Fire Department and Santa Claus, they held a Christmas celebration on Thursday.
Bruce Whear played Santa Claus — a role he’s held at various community events for 40 years. He’s spent most of his life as a performer and is associated with the Marblehead Little Theatre. In his red outfit, he opened his arms to the children as they arrived, letting them sit in his lap and tell him how their 2022 went.
The children living at Cherry Court received age-appropriate gifts with their names written on the boxes. The gifts were sponsored by Toys for Local Children and included two bicycles, a Nintendo Switch, and more.
“I love it!” exclaimed one girl when she unwrapped her gift.
Police dog Sora was there to welcome each family. Swampscott Ladder 21 was also on the scene. The children were welcome to explore the firetruck, according to the Fire Department.
Layla Williams has been the Resident Service Coordinator at the Housing Authority since the start of the year 2022. She organized the party and describes its goals — to promote a healthy community, allow neighbors to network, bring happiness to families and seniors, provide gifts to the children of Cherry Court, and allow the children a chance to see important learned skills, like kindness, in action during this special time of year.
