Established in 1980, the preschool at Willow Street United Church of Christ (WSUCC) aims to prepare children for a positive kindergarten experience by providing a nurturing environment to help them grow socially and emotionally. As part of this mission, the WSUCC Preschool has traditionally hosted a breakfast with Santa event. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the breakfast was replaced with a Santa drive-through last year. As some restrictions are still in place, the church has decided to bring back the Santa drive-through again this year.

The second annual Santa drive-through will take place on Friday, Dec. 3, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at WSUCC, 2723 N. Willow Street Pike, Willow Street. Families that attend can meet Santa, who will bring his sleigh. While there, children may write their Christmas letters and mail them in the North Pole mailbox at the church. Santa will write back to children who leave their address on the letter. Photos will be permitted, and each child will receive a goodie bag as well as a make-and-take craft.

"We can't wait to see Santa again and help him to spread some hope and joy for the Christmas season!" exclaimed Susan Myers, chairman of the Preschool Board at WSUCC.

There is an admission fee per vehicle, and the proceeds from the event will go to the WSUCC Preschool, which provides scholarships for students in need of financial assistance.

"With COVID, our nonprofit preschool has taken a large financial loss with a decrease in enrollment and staff shortages," noted Myers.

Those unable to attend the Santa drive-through are still able to take part in the festivities. Children can mail their Christmas letters and a set fee to Santa through the WSUCC Preschool.

For more information, including the mailing address for letters and the monetary amount to include, contact Lauren Maffett, director of Willow Street UCC Preschool, by calling 717-464-0720 or emailing wsuccpreschool@gmail.com. To learn more about the church, visit http://www.wsucc.com.