And, just like that, our hearts grew ten times larger

Every year, a local radio station does a Secret Santa program that has grown into one of the biggest acts of generosity I’ve ever seen.  Families in need (or others on their behalf) write letters to the station and ask for everything from a warm coat to a workable car that would get them to and from work.  Parents ask for presents for their children so that they have something to put under the Christmas tree.  Another asks for the essentials for her baby: diapers, blankets, etc.  Others ask for groceries for their elderly shut-in neighbor. 

“Dear Santa,

For the past year, I have had the privilege to help a disabled woman.  Even though she has been through a hard and abusive past, she is always smiling and is kind to everyone around her…”

The station now dedicates the entire month of December coordinating a fundraising and wish fulfilling campaign on behalf of these folks.  And listeners respond. 

Christmas should be a special time of year for everyone and KZST’s Secret Santa program has definitely brightened so many people’s lives who otherwise would’ve faced a bleak holiday season.  Hearing the stories read on-air and knowing that these people will have their wishes fulfilled brings a smile to my face.

My business partner and I have always felt strongly about building a business that allows for us to give back.  We have developed a program called BFF (Best Foot Forward) that partners with worthwhile nonprofits and programs to help raise money and awareness for their heroic community efforts.   KZST’s Secret Santa program, and all the individuals involved, obviously fall into the heroic category.

We are very happy this year to be in the position to give the gift of warmth and comfort.  We donated 25 pairs of shearling boots to the Secret Santa program.  When we delivered these to the radio station, you would’ve thought we were Santa himself sliding in behind flying reindeer.  The radio station’s team of “elves” was so excited to see us and so grateful for our donation.  They let us know that we were helping fulfilling a need of the teenage crowd who often gets overlooked. 

And, just like that, our hearts grew ten times larger.

If you’re able to be a Secret Santa or help in any way, please contact KZST at http://www.kzst.com/santa/secretsanta.php

Merry Christmas and may all your days be sunny!

California Footwear Company is a Santa Rosa-based company that specializes in comfortable footwear.   We’re still fairly new, so you may not have heard of us just yet – but we’re working pair-by-pair to be known throughout the world for our quality products that reflect everything we love about California:  a focus on health and well-being, a touch of fashion, and all the activities our amazing state has to offer.