The San Marcos Police Department, together with the San Marcos Community and Police Association, announced that applications for the 2026 Blue Santa program will open at noon on October 9. For more than five decades, Blue Santa has delivered Christmas gifts to local families, embodying the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.
How to Apply
Only the first 550 complete applications will be accepted, and they will be processed on a first‑come, first‑served basis. The application window closes on November 12 at 4 p.m., or when the 550‑application cap is reached, whichever comes first.
Eligibility requirements are straightforward:
- Children must be 12 years of age or younger.
- Applicants must be permanent residents of the home listed on the application.
- Applicants must live within the San Marcos city limits or within the San Marcos CISD.
- Immigration status is not considered when determining eligibility.
- All information provided must be complete and accurate.
Program Details
Families whose applications are accepted will receive a postcard by mail with details on where and when to pick up their gift packages on December 19. The program is funded entirely through community donations, local businesses, organizations, and other community partners.
Blue Santa Program Coordinator Laray Taylor emphasized that the initiative is about more than toys. “It is about neighbors helping neighbors and making sure local children experience the joy of Christmas,” Taylor said in the release.
Volunteer Opportunities
Community members are invited to help wrap gifts on three volunteer dates: November 3, November 10, and November 17. Volunteers can sign up through the program’s website or by contacting the police department directly.
Why the Application Limit?
Last year the department received more than 700 applications, exceeding the number of gift packages the program could realistically fulfill. By limiting applications to 550 this year, the program can better manage its resources and ensure that every family accepted into the program receives a complete gift package.
The San Marcos Police Department and its community partners thank the many individuals, businesses, and organizations whose generosity makes Blue Santa possible each year. Residents who wish to donate or volunteer are encouraged to reach out early, as the holiday season approaches quickly.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
