Santa came to town, Saturday, December 3, 2022, kicking off the Holiday festivities for the residents of St. Louis Center. For over 10 years, a celebratory Christmas Party has been planned by the Friends of Al Chirco. After a two-year break due to covid restrictions, they returned with cheer to spread to all residents.
Getting ready to celebrate
Months of preparation had been done by the group. From gathering resident wish lists, shopping, and preparing a menu; everyone pitched in their skills to 
make this happen. Once the day of the event was upon them, everyone loaded up their gifts and made the trek to Chelsea from the Detroit Area.
The St. Louis Center gym was filled with presents while members of the group began to prepare lunch in the kitchen. The excitement could be felt as everyone finished their tasks. Mass was held in the Center’s chapel and soon after the residents and guests made their way to the gym.
Excitement and celebration for all
Residents filled their plates with delicious homemade Italian food that was made and served with love by the volunteers and awaited the big surprise. After lunch, a few residents were selected to give greetings
and thanks to the guests. Lee B. sang “We wish you a Merry Christmas.” Next, Alex B. gave a big thank you and exclaimed “I’m happy” in response to all the festivities. Then, Lee C. thanked everyone for coming and told them about his family and what makes them special, including his cousin who plays college football. Finally, Jackie L. started the group with a song of “Jingle Bells” to welcome Santa Claus into the gym.
Santa joined the room full of cheer and happiness. He took time greeting each resident as he called them by name to receive a present. Presents were donated by the Friends of Al Chirco group and were personally selected for each resident.
It was a wonderful start to the Christmas Season.
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