[StBernard] Santa on the Bayou seeks help to give toys and a Christmas event for St. Bernard children parishwide

[Westley Annis]

Santa On The Bayou, which previously has given Christmas presents to the
children of eastern St. Bernard Parish, will this year attempt to provide
toys and a Christmas event for children parishwide but is seeking help from
parish businesses and industry.
The group has begun solicitations for Christmas presents for the children of
St. Bernard Parish. 
 
In years past, Operation Merry Christmas has provided toys for Christmas,
however, this year that organization will help sponsor the Christmas parade
and gifts to the elderly and parish schools.  The organization will not be
sponsoring toys for kids this year.  
 
Santa On The Bayou, organized several years ago, has sponsored gifts and a
Christmas gathering and boat parade in eastern St. Bernard. In 2004 the
organization handed out 225 toys to the children of eastern St. Bernard. 
 
This year Santa On The Bayou will attempt to provide toys and a Christmas
event for all St. Bernard children.
 
Anthony A. Fernandez, Jr., who manages Santa On The Bayou, is urging all
parish business and industries to help make this a Merry Christmas for the
kids of St. Bernard. 
 
 Fernandez said, "Many of these kids lost their homes, clothes and toys.
This is the time for everyone to step up and help.  These kids can not be
disappointed.''
 Fernandez said contributions can be sent to:  Santa On The Bayou, PO Box
1062, Chalmette, La.,  70044.  The organization is a registered tax exempt
entity bearing tax number 20-3223931. Fernandez' office number is 279-4260.