BNSF News

Santa Claus Express Brings Holiday Cheer to Southern California

2007-12-03

More than 1,500 deserving children are riding the rails and receiving gifts from Santa and Mrs. Claus on board the BNSF Santa Claus Express holiday train as it travels through Southern California. The train began operating last Thursday, Nov. 29, and concludes today, Dec. 3.  

This special train began its journey with rides in Los Angeles and Long Beach, where children decorated the train with personalized ornaments, received presents and enjoyed the entertainment of Chipper from the California Highway Patrol, Ladybug the Clown, and Alvin and the Chipmunks. 

"Watching the smiles on the children’s faces reminded me what the holiday season is really about," said Mark Kirschinger, general manager, California Division. "This long-standing event is such a special opportunity for BNSF to give back to the many communities we serve, and our employee-volunteers enjoy it every year."

This is the 17th year BNSF’s Santa Claus Express has been in Southern California, but the first time the train visited the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor area, with children aboard from various local and community organizations, including the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation, General Childcare, Infant Toddler Migrant & State Preschool, Comprehensive Child Development, YWCA of Wilmington, Boys & Girls Club of Wilmington, Harbor Interfaith Services of San Pedro, Catholic Charities of Long Beach and Miller Children’s Hospital.

The train’s departure points are San Bernardino, Duarte and Victorville. Today, children aboard are from Shriner’s Hospital for Crippled Children, Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation, Scottish Rite, Easter Seals, Childhelp USA, United Way, and the City of Hope Hospital, among other organizations.

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