Children who received Christmas presents through Operation Breakthrough gave St. Nick most of the credit, but we know that the real heroes of the holidays were the hundreds of people who gave gifts and time to brighten the season for our families.

A record number of children – 2,836 – received gifts through Operation Breakthrough in December. No wonder they had such high praise for the man with the sleigh. Holiday donors and volunteers, feel free to swap your name for his as you read these excerpts from the children’s “thank you” letters, because YOU are the ones who made the holiday magic happen:

“You rock, Santa.”

“I love you, Santa. You make me so happy…. I wish I (could) give you a big hug.”

“We would like to thank you and the elves for your loving, caring, kind spirit.... My brother and I appreciate all that you do. You make the world a better place.”

“Santa, you are so nice and you are so sweet…. Thank you for the presents. It wouldn’t be Christmas without you.”