Beginning on Friday, Dec. 5, Bend Fire & Rescue’s Santa Express will visit neighborhoods around Bend to collect donations of food, clothing and toys to support The Salvation Army this holiday season.
The Santa Express will visit three neighborhoods:
- Friday, Dec. 5: Southeast Bend – Foxborough, Larkspur and Sun Meadow neighborhoods
- Saturday, Dec. 6: Northwest Bend – Three Pines, Westside Meadows and Shevlin Ridge neighborhoods
- Monday, Dec. 8: Southwest Bend – Pine Ridge, River Canyon and Aspen Rim neighborhoods
Route details are available at bendoregon.gov/santa-express.
Santa and Bend Fire crews will begin at 6 p.m. each night, slowly walking the neighborhood routes and gathering donations. Community members are encouraged to meet Santa along the way with donations of non-perishable foods, new toys or gently used clothing. The Salvation Army has expressed an increased need for gifts for teenagers this year.
Those needing assistance with food or presents can call The Salvation Army at 541-389-8888.
Can’t catch Santa Express this year?
Bend Fire is also hosting a season-long food drive for NeighborImpact. Donations of non-perishable food – such as canned fruits, vegetables, soups and peanut butter – can be dropped off at any Bend Fire station through Friday, Dec. 12. Items will be distributed to local pantries, meal sites and shelters.
Fire station locations:
- West – 1212 SW Simpson Ave., Bend
- East – 62420 Hamby Road, Bend
- North – 63377 Jamison St., Bend
- South – 61080 Country Club Drive, Bend
- Tumalo – 64725 Cook Ave., Tumalo
- Pilot Butte – 425 NE 15th St., Bend