Fire Department’s ‘Santa Run’ brings holiday cheer to Millerton

MILLERTON — Sirens and red, white and blue lights swirled through the village and town on Saturday, Dec. 6, as members of the all-volunteer Millerton Fire Department completed their fifth annual Santa Run. The all-day event, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to spread holiday cheer, proved to be so successful that it has since become a cherished community tradition.

This year, volunteers delivered gifts to nearly 100 local children, traveling in a parade of seven vehicles — five fire trucks and two chief vehicles, plus Santa’s wooden sleigh — and stopping at homes across Millerton’s neighborhoods. The run kicked off at 9:00 a.m. and wrapped up around 3:45 p.m., just as the late-afternoon light began to fade.

“It’s always nice to see the kids and how grateful they are,” said volunteer Heather Mullen, who has driven Santa’s truck for five years. “We had a child on a side street who said, ‘I didn’t even know I was getting anything!’ If that doesn’t absolutely bring you joy, I don’t know what will.”

Event organizer and Fire Police Captain Kelly Roger begins preparations each Halloween, handing out letters at the firehouse to kids and families. Throughout November, children then return their holiday wish lists to a decorated, vintage mailbox on Century Boulevard.

“I read every letter,” Roger said. “We make sure every child gets something they actually like. It’s a lot of work — but it’s worth every minute.”

Roger also takes an extra step to wrap additional gifts for any children who may not have submitted letters to Santa, ensuring that no one feels left behind.

Community donations help make that possible. Ahead of the event, Roger puts out a call for unwrapped toys, and she said residents delivered this year.

The sleigh that carries Santa’s presents has become a holiday staple of its own. Built more than 15 years ago by Santa himself, it makes appearances outside of the Santa Run, including holiday parades in Millerton and Amenia.

Fire Chief Keith Roger praised the volunteers who dedicate an entire Saturday to bringing smiles to local children.

“These guys put in all the time and dedication,” he said, adding that his favorite part of the day is seeing the kids jump up and down when they spot Santa and the fire trucks. “Their excitement makes it all worthwhile.”