The toy run began in 2007. That year Santa heard the Christmas wishes of approximately 700 children. Each child was given a toy, batteries and a chance to win a bicycle. These precious angels waited, eating their punch and cookies, to hopefully hear their name called out.
In 2008, approximately 200 riders and numerous custom vehicles, escorted Santa from Pelican Junction to the Baytown Community Center. Santa heard the wishes of about 1400 children. Each child received a free picture with Santa. Santa and his many elves gave each child a Christmas gift, the batteries to run the toy, and a chance to win one of 20 bicycles that were donated by Toys for Tots. Along with community donations, local business donations, and other angels the children, who might not have Christmas magic that year, were given the gift of Christmas.
This year we are expecting 1700 to 2000 children to come give Santa their Christmas wish list. The Baytown community has been hit very hard by the economy. Every little donation of a toy, batteries, cookies, punch, or just there to help is greatly appreciated!
If the children do not win a bicycle, Mac and friends have been refurbishing over 100 bicycles to be given away at Pelican Junction after the event at the Baytown Community Center.
Pelican Junction and the City of Baytown ask that you not only reach out to your neighbors that might need some help this year, but reach out to those who can help us give our children a Christmas.