Circle K volunteers at Breakfast with Santa. From left to right: Circle K President Alex Roche, Social Media Chair Chelsey O’Connor and Historian Bianca Oberg. (Photo submitted)
WESTFIELD — For the 30th year, Westfield State University hosted its annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser (a Westfield State Foundation and Circle K club event). This year, more than 550 people came to the Scanlon Banquet Hall to see Santa and enjoyed a breakfast filled with activities for children of all ages.
Profits were divided among various charities. An estimated $1,500 in net proceeds were donated to Shriners Hospital in the name of the Melha Clowns, the Make A Wish Foundation and the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Institute in Boston, MA as well as to Circle K charities.
“I don’t think people realize how important this tradition is,” said Michael Knapik, director of Advancement and University Relations and an event volunteer. “Breakfast with Santa represents the best of the university/city relationship. It serves as a great touchstone for the community to connect and benefit from the university’s resources in a way that’s fun for the whole family.”
Online-only availability of tickets was implemented for the first time. Prices remained the same at $7 for children and $9 for adults. A photo with Santa Claus was available for $5. Admission for children 3 and under was free. Seating times were 8:30AM & 10:30AM.
The breakfast featured many activities including face painting, arts and crafts, entertainment by the Melha Shriners Clowns, and raffle. Each child three and older received a free gift.
The event was managed by Ken Magarian, director of Special Programs and Community Service at WSU with the help of WSU student and Circle K Club president Alex Roche. Circle K is a student group associated with the Kiwanis Club of Westfield. Event sponsors included Easthampton Savings Bank and the Westfield News.
For more information please contact Ken Magarian 413-572-5406
