F.A.Q's


1. How much food do we need to bring to have our pictures taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus?
At least one item per person in the picture, but whatever you can honestly afford. If you can afford to bring a bag instead, that would be great!


2. How did you choose Guidance Ministries?
In 2007 Guidance Ministries served 15,953 plates of food to the needy. They served 4,620 people from their food pantry. They served 2,462 people from their clothing pantry. They also provided 4,487 Christmas gifts to mainly children during their Christmas outreach. Guidance Ministries is the only ministry in Elkhart county that provides a shower and washer and dryer for the homeless to use. In 2007, they provided 723 showers and 483 loads of laundry. They have no organizations or groups that collect things specifically for them. They get no government funding. They rely on donations from individuals within our community. Everyone that walks in their doors are treated with respect, no matter their situation. Their staff takes the time to listen if someone needs them even if they have put in another long 12 hour day. They do all this with smiles on their faces and often by putting their own needs to the side to help others. To us, the decision to choose them was a easy one.


3. What is your goal?
  • Raise enough food for the pantry to get them through Christmas
  • Generate more customers to participating businesses to help boost our economy
  • Make families aware of and encourage them to do family activities
  • Put smiles on childrens faces during their visit with the Clauses and from letters that Santa returns
  • Get the Elkhart community working together, helping each other and Paying It Forward



4. What if you collect more then you need?
We would welcome that problem! All the local agencies work together and if one has to much, they share with the others.


5. What if I want to make a cash donation?
Cash donations can be made online at Guidance Ministries


6. Are you trying to take Christ out of Christmas by offering pictures with the "Clauses"?
Absolutely not, Jesus is the reason


7. How do I start a Santas Pantry in my area?
Email Us and we'll be happy to help you get started.


8. Does Santas Pantry make money from doing this?
No, none at all. We do it because people in our community need our help.


9. How can I help?
There are many ways that you can help! Become a Sponsor, or Get Involved, take a food or toy donation to Guidance Ministries, or think of a way to Pay It Forward to someone that you know that needs a little help.


10. Are Santa and Mrs. Claus for hire?
Sorry but no. We only do this for Santas Pantry, non-profit organizations, schools and hospitals.


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