Santa came early to Dillard’s on Saturday December 5^th. Santa was joined by helpers from Mehlville Local 1889 and other area firefighters. They combined their efforts with Dream Factory and Dillard’s South County to make wishes come true for local children.

This event allowed 150 area children that are faced with critical or chronic illness to shop for their families. Each child was escorted by a firefighter in their search for the perfect presents. Dream Factory provides each child with a $100 gift certificate.

Dillard’s opened early and had all hands on deck to make this event run smoothly. Part of their gift to the kids was to provide store wide discounts. The employees helped to make the day run smoothly.

Cor Jesu Academy and Lindbergh High School National Honors Society and Student Council members provided gift wrapping stations through out the store.

Dennis Maag and the Missouri Mules, who contribute a large portion of their charitable donations to the dream factory, brought this wonderful event to the Mehlville Fire Fighters Local 1889. In the years since many have been able to participate.

Captain Steve Bladdick has been with the fire district for 23 years. Capt. Bladdick has had the opportunity to participate in past events. “This is an uplifting event. It really helps to put things in perspective.” Everyone who participates believes that they get as much out of it as the kids. “You walk out with a smile. These kids are great and give you a feeling of the true sense of Christmas.”