City of Austin
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASERelease Date:
Contact: Public Information Office 512-974-5017 Email
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Austin Police Operation Blue Santa has made the tough decision not to deliver toys and meals to families this year. Instead, gift cards will be given to each child, along with a $25 gift card to H-E-B, so their families can afford a special holiday meal. We are also delighted to partner with soldiers from Ft. Hood’s 89th MP Brigade who will be assisting APD on all pick up days.
Austin Police Operation Blue Santa recipients will be able to pick up their gift cards on December 12, 13 and 14, between the hours of 8 a.m. – noon and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. each day at the location applicants chose: Nelson Field (North) or 4101 South Industrial Drive (South). Anyone with questions about the pick-up process is invited to contact 512-974-5800 or email bluesanta@austintexas.gov.
Important information for applicants to remember:
- Come only on the day/time/location you selected.
- Please be prepared with the phone number you used when applying.
- Bring a form of photo ID.
COVID-19 safety requirements for applicants:
- Applicants will be required to wear a mask.
- Remain in your car and follow instructions until you reach the front of the line. Then you may exit your vehicle.
- Only the applicant can get out of the car and pick up the gift cards.
- There will be no restrooms available.
Applicants who were sponsored by the Adopt a Family program will be served by a private sponsor and are not eligible for gift cards.
We still have families that need to be adopted. If you are interested in adopting a family, please email bluesanta@austintexas.gov for more information. These are families that might not otherwise be served.
APD has been participating in Austin Police Operation Blue Santa since 1972, and even though this, our 48th year is different, many families still need our help.
Learn more about how you can show your support by visiting the Austin Police Operation Blue Santa’s website, https://www.bluesanta.org/. Your assistance could make a difference for a child and their family this holiday season.
Austin Police Operation Blue Santa appreciates all donations, and you can also show your support by participating in the upcoming events that are listed on the website, https://www.bluesanta.org.