A Letter From Santa Bear

Like so many people, I struggle with mental health. In November of 2021, due to a combination of procrastination, a busy work schedule with odd hours, and holiday closings, I was without my depression and anxiety meds for almost two weeks. As with many others, the holidays are a very emotional and rough time for me. After being without my meds for that long, the darkness started creeping in. My mind went to some scary places and I had some dangerous thoughts.

I saw a couple friends on Facebook looking for a Santa and I happened to have a suit so I offered. The first Santa experience was with a local radio station and a food/toy drive for local animal shelters. Their energy really got me fired up and excited and now I couldn’t wait for the second appearance at an event with a local rum distillery. I got to ride in on a fire truck which was super cool. All the people and their children being so excited to see me (Santa) really turned things around for my mental health.

I was infected by the joy and magic of Christmas. Santa Claus saved my life.

Upon finding this new passion for Christmas, I decided to explore how much a Santa can make. As an entertainer with a background in working with and coaching children, plus my physical gifts of a big beard and a jolly belly, it only made sense to explore this path. After doing some research, I realized that Santa is a big industry and often times not as accessible to all due to the costs involved.

While I have experienced financial struggles at different points in my life, there are many out there way worse off than I. $40-$80 is the average range of a mall Santa photo across the US. For some families, that is not feasible without some sacrifice.

Our mission is to bring free professional Santa pictures to all, without the extra expense. For those that can afford it, we will offer one on one Santa experiences. These experiences include hand written letters, video chats, and in-home visits, among other things. All funds raised go to cover the costs of the photographers, costumes and props for the free photo sessions.

We are also working to provide meals and presents to families in need. There will be other avenues of financial relief as well, such as assisting with bills and back to school costs. With our headquarters on Pine Island, we have some concentrated efforts to help the island residents, many of which are still displaced from Hurricane Ian in Sept of 2022.

But before anyone can save the world, you have to take that first step. Please take that first step with us and help share some Christmas Magic. Everyone deserves a taste of the Santa Life!