Hillside’s Special Santa program, a time-honored tradition, has launched its 51st season of spreading holiday cheer. The enduring toy-and-gift drive will run throughout all regions served by Hillside through Monday, December 14, encouraging community members to give generously in support of the youth and families we serve.
“Each year for more than 50 years, the communities served by Hillside have gathered together in a shared act of seasonal generosity—making donations that help brighten the holidays for children and families in need,” said Maria Cristalli, Hillside President and CEO. “As we launch another year of Special Santa, the need faced by those we serve is greater than ever.”
Thanks to community donations during the 2025 season, nearly 8,000 gifts were distributed to more than 3,500 children and families served by Hillside. For the 2026 season, community members can participate in a variety of ways, with more details available at Hillside.com/special-santa:
- By making a convenient online donation to the program, with every dollar directed to buying presents for children and families served by Hillside.
- By dropping off new, unwrapped toys and gifts from a list of the most frequently requested items at dozens of KeyBank locations and other partner sites throughout Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo and the Southern Tier.
- By hosting a private fund-raiser to collect presents and funds for donation to the Special Santa program before December 11, 2026.
KeyBank has returned for the sixth consecutive year as Presenting Sponsor, and hosted an October 30 kickoff event at the bank’s Pittsford, NY, branch location.
“The holidays should be a time of joy for every child, yet we know many families face significant challenges this time of year. That’s why KeyBank is proud to support Hillside’s Special Santa program, which helps ensure children across our region feel celebrated and cared for during the holiday season. We’re grateful to partner with Hillside and invite our community to join us in making this year’s drive another success,” said Vince Lecce, KeyBank’s Rochester Market President.
“We deeply appreciate the support of KeyBank and all our sponsors, and we encourage the community at large to join us in fulfilling the holiday wishes of thousands of youth,” Cristalli said.