PRINCETON, W. Va. -Meeting Santa Claus and telling him what you want for Christmas can be a challenge for many with special needs like autism or down syndrome. It was this situation that inspired an alternative, thanks to help from someone from someone with a personal connection.
“…We are a nonprofit and we have programs in the community that we do, and this one that was near and dear to me because I do have four children that two are special needs and so I was really drawn to the opportunity of having an event just for the special needs, that they can be involved in the season,” says Lori Kinney, paralegal, victim advocate, and program director for ChildLaw Services.
Last year, ChildLaw Services brought a “Sensitive Santa” to the Chuck Mathena Center to give those of all ages the chance to meet Santa in small groups throughout the day, letting them try something new in a calm environment. Candace Wilson, the Chuck Mathena Center’s executive director, says she was excited to be a part and wanted to give everyone a chance to participate in the season’s celebrations.
“It’s important for inclusion for everyone, so we have kids with autism and different things that just have different needs, so it’s important to give them a quiet, safe space to come, get to enjoy Christmas just like everybody else in a different way,” explains Wilson, “ “Really dealing with that is something near and dear to my heart. I have friends with kids in that and it’s just a soft spot that we should all have… in our hearts, so obviously so excited to participate with them. Anything we can do to help. We knew that was just something that we wanted to do when they asked us.”
Kinney calls last year’s Sensitive Santa event “fantastic,” with many families saying they wanted to join in this year as well.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude that I am able to be a part of this. I am able to see this in the community and see the people that are so often pushed to the side maybe, not meaning to be, not in a hateful sort of way, but just not included, and this is a very inclusive event for them, and they, I think, recognize that,” says Kinney.
Last year, they had more than sixty special needs individuals taking part, a number they’ve already met in registration and hope to grow further. Kinney and invite those interested in to join them, adding that she would have enjoyed knowing about an event like this when her kids were younger.
This will be held this Wednesday, December 18th from 11:00 am -7:00 pm. If you would like to participate, you can contact Kinney at ChildLaw Services by calling 304-425-9973 to get a specific time to join.
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