For those who believe, the holidays are a season of wonder. This year, that wonder took a very real form when Santa and Mrs. Claus turned goodwill into groceries, raising $961 for the Community Resource Council (CRC) Community Fridge to help neighbors across the peninsula. 

The beloved duo was a joyful fixture at Boothbay Railway Village’s North Pole Express, warming the hearts and imaginations of hundreds of children. young and old throughout the season. Between photo ops and the wide-eyed wonder, they kept a second mission humming to collect funds in the community to stock the CRC Community Fridge through small, local acts of generosity. 

Armed with homemade, goldglittered collection boxes, Mr. and Mrs. Claus enlisted a bunch of local “elves” to help. Those participating in businesses included Cook’s Landing, T&D, Grover’s Hardware, Good 'N You, the Boothbay Railway Village, and Peter and Fran Gleason. Together, they collected contributions and community kindness into a meaningful boost for families counting on the Community Fridge this winter. 

“Small gifts add up to big impact, especially when the whole community pitches in,” said CRC Director Holly Stover, who accepted the donation on behalf of the organization. “We’re grateful for the generosity and the holiday spirit that made this possible.” 

Before dashing away for a well-earned winter rest, Santa and Mrs. Claus stopped by the Community Fridge to present the funds. Their visit left behind more than a check, offering a clear reminder of what we can do when our community leads with compassion and generosity.